Planning for Safety

If you feel unsafe in your 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) and use this mobile resource guide.
• 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 or friend 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.)
• If you want to leave, plan the safest time to get away. Know how you will leave and where you plan to find initial safety.
• 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.

Call the Philadelphia Domestic Violence Hotline

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Your "go bag" may include:

• Money, EBT card, checkbook, credit cards, pay stubs
• Personal documents, such as birth certificate, passport, photo ID, social security card, green card, work permit, etc.
• Health insurance cards, extra medication for you and your children
• Deed or lease to your house or apartment
• Court papers or orders
• Change of clothes for you and your children
• An extra set of house and car keys
• Phone charger