Safety planning guide

A safety plan is a personalized, practical plan to help you stay safer while in an abusive relationship, when preparing to leave, or after you've left.

Safety During an Incident

• Identify safe areas in your home where there are no weapons and multiple exits
• Avoid rooms with only one exit (bathrooms, closets) during arguments
• Practice how to get out of your home safely
• Identify which doors, windows, or stairwells would be best to use
• Have a code word to use with children, family, or friends to signal you need help
• Keep your phone charged and accessible
• Memorize important phone numbers in case your phone is taken

Safety When Preparing to Leave

• Keep important documents in a safe place outside your home (with a trusted friend or in a safety deposit box)
• Open a bank account in your own name at a different bank
• Leave money, extra keys, and copies of important documents with someone you trust
• Pack a bag with essentials and keep it hidden or with a trusted person
• Plan where you will go and how you will get there
• Review your emergency shelter options

Technology Safety

• Change passwords on all accounts
• Check your devices for tracking apps or spyware
• Use a safe computer (library, friend's house, work) to search for help
• Clear your browser history after looking up resources
• Consider getting a separate phone the abuser doesn't know about
• Turn off location sharing on your phone and social media
• Be cautious about what you post on social media

Safety After Leaving

• Change your routine - take different routes, shop at different stores
• Alert your workplace, children's school, and neighbors about the situation
• Get a protection order and keep copies with you at all times
• Change locks on your doors and windows
• Install a security system if possible
• Save and document all contact, messages, or gifts from the abuser
• Develop a safety plan with your children's school or daycare

Emergency Contact List

Keep these numbers accessible:

• 911 for emergencies
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
• Local domestic violence shelter
• Local police department (non-emergency)
• Trusted friends or family members
• Your attorney (if you have one)
• Your children's school

Get Personalized Safety Planning Support

Sunflowers Key provides one-on-one safety planning assistance tailored to your unique situation. Our trained advocates can help you:

• Create a customized safety plan
• Identify resources specific to your needs
• Navigate the legal system
• Access our comprehensive survivor support systems
• Connect with emergency services when needed

Your safety matters. Let us help you create a plan that works for you.

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