Planning for Safety
Create a Safety Plan:
If you are in or are planning to leave a violent relationship, a safety plan can be a very valuable resource. A safety plan will help you think through some of the steps you may decide to take to protect yourself and your children. You can receive support in creating a safety plan from counselors on the Philadelphia Domestic Violence Hotline (1-866-723-3014).
Your safety plan may include:
- Know where you can get help. Keep a list of important phone numbers (police, domestic violence hotline, hospital).
- Plan with your children. Identify a safe place for them (room with a lock, neighbor’s house). Let them know that their job is to stay safe; not to protect you.
- Arrange a signal with a neighbor for when you need help.
- Prepare an emergency kit or "go bag" that you can get to quickly. (You may want to keep it at a trusted friend’s/neighbor’s house.)
- Plan the safest time to get away. Know how you will leave and which doors or windows you will use.
- Leaving can be the most dangerous time in an abusive relationship, so if you forget something, do not return to the home. Advocates at Women Against Abuse can help clients replace documents or other items they may need.
Your "go bag" may include:
- An extra set of car and house keys
- Money, food stamps, checkbook, credit card(s), pay stubs
- Birth certificates and other ID for you and your children
- Driver’s license or other photo identification
- Social security card or green card/work permit
- Health insurance cards, medications for you and your children
- Deed or lease to your house or apartment
- Any court papers or orders
- Change of clothes for you and your children
