Your Guide to Staying Safe
A safety plan is a personalized, practical plan to improve your safety while experiencing domestic violence. It is a set of actions you can take to protect yourself and your children. Remember, you are not to blame for the violence. This is a tool to help you think through potential risks and ways to increase your safety.
Immediate Danger?
If you are in immediate danger, please call 9-1-1. This guide is for planning purposes and is not a substitute for emergency services.
If you are still living with the abuser, here are some steps to increase your safety:
- Identify safe areas in your home where there are no weapons and have a way to escape. Avoid rooms like the kitchen or garage.
- Create a code word or signal to use with your children, family, or friends to let them know you need help.
- Keep your phone charged and with you at all times.
- Teach your children how to call 9-1-1 and what to say (their name, address, and that they need help).
- Prepare a bag with essential items and hide it in a safe place, or leave it with a trusted friend or neighbour.
Leaving an abuser is the most dangerous time. Careful planning is vital.
- Prepare an Emergency Bag: Include money, keys, important documents (ID, birth certificates, passports, immigration papers), medications, and a change of clothes for you and your children.
- Open a Separate Bank Account: If possible, start saving money in an account that the abuser cannot access.
- Identify a Safe Place: Know where you will go, whether it's our shelter, a friend's house, or a family member's home.
- Secure Your Digital Life: Change passwords to important online accounts (email, social media, banking). Be aware of tracking apps on your phone or computer.
- Practice Your Escape Plan: Think through the steps of how you will leave. Practice it if possible.
Your safety is still a priority after you have left.
- Get a Protection Order: Consider applying for a protective order from the court. We can help you with this process.
- Change Your Routine: Vary your routes to work or school. Inform your employer and your children's school about your situation.
- Increase Home Security: Change the locks, even if you don't think the abuser has a key. Install a security system if possible.
- Stay Connected: Let trusted people know about your situation. Don't isolate yourself. Attend support groups.
- Continue Digital Safety: Block the abuser on your phone and social media. Be cautious about what you post online.