A safety plan is a plan of action designed to increase safety when a violent incident occurs or when planning to escape a violent relationship.  Leaving is the most dangerous time so planning is essential to keeping you safe!

Examples of things to think about:

Have a cell phone ready
So you can quickly and easily call 911

Know your escape route
Practice how to get out of your home safely. Visualize your escape route

Use a code word or signal
Tell your children and/or neighbors so you can communicate when you need help or the police

Identify a safe place to go
Make sure it is a place that is safe, like somewhere the abuser doesn't know about

Trust your instincts
If something doesn't feel right or safe, it probably isn't.

Have a bag ready with important documents and/or money
Try to keep it hidden in a safe place or leave it elsewhere so you can access it later

Wait if it keeps you safe
Sometimes waiting for a safe time to call the police is safer

Call a domestic violence victim service program
Find out which services and shelters are available as options if you need them

Identify someone you trust and make a plan
Leave money, extra keys, copies of important documents and clothing with them in advance, so you can leave quickly, if necessary

Open a bank account
Put it in your name only, it will help you later and increase your independence

Review your safety plan
Study and check your plan as often as possible in order to know the safest way to leave

Important documents or items  to think about taking with you

Driver's license
Birth certificates
Cash, checkbooks, credit cards, ATM cards
Car titles
Social Security Card
Work Permit
Passport
Divorce, custody papers
Restraining Order
Insurance papers/Immunization Records
Medical Records
Lease, rental agreement
School Records
Keys - house, car, office, friend's
Medications, glasses, hearing aids