Safety Planning
Would you like help with safety planning for yourself? Schedule a meeting with one of our advocates for personalized assistance.
In immediate danger? Call 911 immediately. For 24/7 confidential support, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or text "START" to 88788.
If you are experiencing an abusive relationship, having a safety plan is essential for your well-being. Carefully review the information provided below and think about calling Empowering Women for assistance from our advocates in creating a safety plan.
If you are still in a relationship with your partner…
While you remain in the relationship, focus on minimizing physical danger, protecting your well-being, and having actionable escape preparations ready at a moment's notice.
Identify a safe place to go if an argument occurs. Avoid rooms without exits (e.g., bathrooms) or those with potential weapons (e.g., kitchens).
Make a list of trusted people you can contact for help.
Always keep some money with you.
Memorize important phone numbers.
Establish a code word or sign to signal family, friends, neighbors, teachers, or coworkers when you need help.
Keep essential documents like social security cards and birth certificates with you.
Avoid arguing or reasoning with your partner; you cannot change their behavior.
If your partner tries to hit you, protect your face with your hands and arms. If you are knocked down, curl into a ball to protect your head, face, and stomach.
Back your car into the driveway and keep it filled with gas for a quick escape. Keep the driver's door unlocked.
Ensure your cell phone is always fully charged.
If you are no longer with your partner…
Leaving an abusive partner is often the most critical window. Protect your new space, tighten security measures, and prevent unexpected encounters.
Change your phone number.
Screen your phone calls.
Save and document all contacts, messages, injuries, or other incidents involving the abuser.
Change the locks if the abuser has a key.
Avoid staying home alone.
Plan escape routes if the abuser shows up.
If you must meet your former partner, choose a public place.
Inform your school, workplace, and childcare contacts that you have left your abusive partner.
Vary your routine to prevent the abuser from predicting your whereabouts.
Comprehensive Safety Steps
Safety planning extends beyond immediate physical defense. Protect your digital footprint, safeguard your children and pets, and prepare an emergency grab bag.
Digital Safety
- Use a safe computer or hidden private browser window (Incognito) when researching safety resources.
- Create a new email account that your abuser does not know about for confidential communications.
- Review app location permissions on your smartphone, and turn off location sharing for maps and social apps.
- Change all account passwords from a secure device, and enable two-factor authentication where safe.
- Be cautious on social media — avoid posting real-time locations or check-ins.
Children & Pet Safety
- Teach children how and when to call 911 for emergencies without scaring them.
- Establish a safe family meeting spot outside the home in case of emergency evacuation.
- Ensure children know their full names, home address, and a trusted relative's phone number.
- Pack emergency comfort items, birth certificates, vaccination records, and medication for children and pets.
- Identify a trusted neighbor or shelter that can care for pets if you need to leave quickly.
Emergency Bag Checklist
- Identification (Driver's license, Passport, SSN cards, Green Card, Birth Certificates)
- Financial items (Cash, debit/credit cards in your name, checkbooks, financial statements)
- Legal documents (Restraining orders, custody papers, marriage certificate, house title/lease)
- Medical essentials (Prescription medications, health insurance cards, medical records)
- Keys & Electronics (Spare house/car keys, fully charged phone, charger, portable power bank)
- Personal items (Change of clothes, basic toiletries, comfort items for children)
You don't have to navigate this alone
Creating a safety plan is a vital step toward reclaiming control over your life. Lady Ashley Boswell and our compassionate team are available to help you build a safe, confidential plan tailored to your specific circumstances.
You deserve support. You are not alone.
If you're in crisis, reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or text "START" to 88788. For a free consultation with Lady Ashley, book below.
(951) 348-1560