Safety Plan

Those still living in domestic violence situations need to have a current Safety Plan. A safety plan would include the following (and much more): a list of places where the victim and/or children can stay in the event that they must leave quickly; a code phrase that can be used when speaking to family and friends that would let them know that immediate help is needed without alerting the abuser; a list of important financial information; a location where the victim has managed to put aside some money; a location where the victim has hidden an extra vehicle key and/or a pre-paid cell phone or calling card.; family and friend’s contact information; an envelope containing important documents that the victim should take with them (SSN cards, ID, insurance cards, children’s birth certificates, etc.). A very good example of a Safety Plan can be found at aardvarc.org. Those who are considering getting out of an abusive relationship should strongly consider putting together a safety plan.