Safety Planning & Protection

Learn how to develop a safety plan based on your individual needs and circumstances. There is no single safety plan that works for everyone. Each person's circumstances, available resources, level of risk, and personal choices are different. A trained domestic violence advocate can help individuals develop a plan tailored to their situation.

Explore information about emergency contacts, housing, important documents, finances, children, transportation, and other considerations when preparing to leave. Leaving may increase danger in some situations. Individual safety planning with a trained advocate is recommended.

Learn about additional safety considerations after separation, including communication, employment, school arrangements, location privacy, and protective orders.

Documentation may help establish a record of abusive behavior. Depending on individual circumstances, documentation might include dates, times, and descriptions of incidents; threatening messages, emails, or voicemails; photographs of injuries or property damage; relevant medical documentation; police reports; and witness information. Only collect or store documentation when doing so is safe. Information stored on monitored devices or shared accounts may be accessible to an abusive person. Laws also vary regarding recordings and other evidence.

Technology can be used to monitor, harass, stalk, threaten, or control another person. Abusive behaviors may involve location sharing, account access, spyware, social media, or repeated unwanted contact. Visit the National Network to End Domestic Violence for technology safety information.

Domestic violence shelters may provide temporary safe accommodations, crisis support, safety planning, advocacy, and referrals. Shelter availability and eligibility vary. Contact a local service provider for current information and a confidential assessment.