It is important to have a plan to increase safety as violence can escalate. A victim cannot control his or her partner’s abusive behavior, but they can take steps to protect themselves and their children from harm. A safety plan is a personalized and practical plan that helps identify things a victim can do to better protect themselves and their children and to help reduce the risk of being hurt.
Safety plans can include:
- Obtaining a new cell phone
- Changing a routine
- Changing locks and installing security systems
- Determining ways to keep children safe
- Creating a plan for where to go should an incident occur
- Calling Domestic Violence Crisis Center
If a victim is planning to leave, here are some thing to consider:
- Putting aside a bag with money, a change of clothes, identification, and medication.
- Putting aside important documents like birth certificates and social security cards.
DVCC is here to help victims interested in developing a personalized safety plan. Leaving an abusive situation can be the most dangerous time. It is strongly encouraged that a victim gets professional help and support during this time.
Click the link below for tips on how to stay safe in different situations.
Domestic Violence Safety Planning Tips & Ideas