Safety Planning

Victims of domestic violence may face numerous risks on a daily basis, but planning ahead can enhance safety during or after a violent incident. You can contact your local domestic violence program for assistance with developing a personalized safety plan for you and your children.

You can’t control your partner’s abusive behavior, but you can take steps to protect yourself and your children from harm. Whether you decide to stay or end the relationship, you should consider creating a safety plan. A safety plan is a personalized and practical plan for reducing the risk of being hurt.

Safety Planning allows victims to explore options and make choices regarding their individual safety and the safety needs of their children. It can help you avoid dangerous situations and know the best way to react when you are in danger.

A safety plan helps you to identify things you can do to better protect you and your children at your home, school, work, and in the community. These changes may be big, like going to a confidential shelter or changing schools or they may be small, like changing your email passwords or the route you take to work. Your safety plan can also help you to escape a violent incident safely, protect your children, and get assistance or support if needed.