Safety & Emergency Planning

Safety planning is essential for anyone experiencing or fearing abuse, regardless of age or relationship. It helps prepare for potentially dangerous situations and ensures you have strategies in place for your safety.

SAFETY DURING AN EXPLOSIVE INCIDENT

  • Identify Safe Areas: Choose rooms with exits, away from weapons.

  • Stay Near a Phone: Keep a phone accessible to call for help.

  • Create a Support Network: Identify trusted friends, family, and community resources.

  • Plan Your Exit: Know the safest routes out of your home.

  • Prepare a Go-Bag: Pack essentials in a discreet spot.

  • Establish a Code Word: Use a signal with trusted individuals for help.

  • Involve a Neighbor: Ask them to call the police if they hear disturbances.

SAFETY WHEN PREPARING TO LEAVE

  • Establish Financial Independence: Open a personal bank account.

  • Prepare Essential Items: Leave key items with a trusted person.

  • Keep Emergency Contacts Handy: Have important numbers such as hotlines accessible.

  • Identify Safe Places: Know where to go.

SAFETY AFTER YOU LEAVE

  • Change Your Contact Information: Update your phone number, email, social media, etc.

  • Secure Your Living Environment: Change locks and consider security measures.

  • Create a Support Network: Stay connected with friends and support groups.

  • Consider Legal Protections: Look into restraining orders.

SAFETY WITH CO-PARENTING

  • Establish Clear Communication: Use neutral methods for contact, such as court-ordered parenting apps or a third party.

  • Set Boundaries: Clearly define parenting responsibilities.

  • Use Safe Locations for Exchanges: Choose public places for child exchange, supervised exchange locations, or involve a third party.

  • Create a Parenting Schedule: Develop a detailed parenting plan outlining custody arrangements.

  • Document Everything: Keep thorough records of all communication as well as any incidents or breaches of boundaries.

  • Keep Your Child Informed: Explain necessary boundaries to your child with age-appropriate conversations.

  • Coordinate with the School: Inform the school about your situation and discuss safety measures.

  • Monitor Your Child's Well-Being: Be attentive to any changes in your child's behavior or feelings.

SAFETY FOR TEENS EXPERIENCING DATING VIOLENCE

  • Recognize Warning Signs: Be aware of controlling behaviors.

  • Talk to Trusted Adults: Seek help from family, teachers, or counselors.

  • Create a Support Network: Share your situation with supportive friends.

Remember, your safety is the priority. Regularly review and adjust your safety plan to ensure it meets your current needs. If you would like assistance with developing your safety plan, please call our 24-Hour Crisis Line.

All Services are Free & Confidential

  • Local Number: 608-791-2600

  • Toll-Free Number: 1-888-231-0066

  • Text Only Number: 608-667-9944

Packing an Emergency Bag.

Having an emergency bag ready can be crucial in ensuring your safety. Consider including these essential items:

IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS

  • ‍‍Identification: Driver's License, Passport, and any other IDs.

  • ‍‍Birth Certificates & Social Security Cards: For yourself and your children.

  • ‍‍Financial Documents: Bank statements and insurance information.

  • ‍‍Legal Papers: Protection orders and custody agreements.

MONEY

  • ‍‍Cash: Small bills for immediate expenses.

  • ‍‍Bank & Credit Cards: Have duplicate/backup cards if possible.

MEDICATIONS

  • ‍‍Prescription Medications: Pack any necessary prescriptions and copies of prescriptions if possible.

  • ‍‍Over-the-Counter Medications: Include pain relievers and allergy meds.

  • ‍‍First Aid Supplies: Band-aids and creams.

CLOTHING

  • ‍‍Change of Clothes: A few outfits, including underwear and shoes for you and your children.

  • ‍‍Weather-Appropriate Outerwear: Jackets, hats, and gloves.

PERSONAL CARE ITEMS

  • ‍‍Toiletries: Toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, and deodorant.

  • ‍‍Feminine Hygiene Products: Include as needed.

  • ‍‍Contact Lenses or Glasses: If applicable.

CHILD ESSENTIALS (IF APPLICABLE)

  • ‍‍Diapers & Wipes: If applicable.

  • ‍‍Snacks and/or Formula: Ensure food needs are met.

  • ‍‍Comfort Items: Favorite toys or blankets.

PHONE & CHARGING CABLES

  • ‍‍Cell Phone & Charger: If possible, include a backup phone.

  • ‍‍Portable Charger: In the event you don't have access to an electrical outlet.

SAFEY ITEMS

  • ‍‍Whistle or Personal Alarm: For signaling for help.

  • ‍‍Pepper Spray: Only if you feel comfortable using it.

MISCELLANEOUS

  • ‍‍Notebook & Pen: For jotting down important information.

  • ‍‍Flashlight with Extra Batteries: For visibility in dark situations.

  • ‍‍Digital Copies of Important Documents: Save on a USB drive or cloud storage if possible.

Ideas for Storing Your Emergency Bag for Easy Access:

  • Bedroom Closet: Keep the bag in an easily accessible spot, like the top shelf or the floor.

  • Under the Bed: A flat, slim bag can fit under most beds, making it discreet yet accessible.

  • Hall Closet: Store the bag in a central location that family members can easily reach.

  • Vehicle Trunk: If it's safe to do so, keep the bag in your car for quick access while traveling

  • Laundry Room: A designated basket or bin in the laundry area.

  • Entryway: Place the bag near the front door or in a coat closet, so it's easily grabbable when leaving home.

  • Basement or Garage: If you have a sage space, store the bag in a waterproof container in these areas.

  • Office or Workspace: Keep your bag in your home office for quick access.

  • Under the Kitchen Sink: If space allows, it can be a good hidden spot for easy access in emergencies.

  • With a Trusted Neighbor Friend or Family Member: Someplace that you can get to quickly and easily if needed.

  • Make sure everyone included in your emergency plan knows where the bag is located and how to access it quickly if needed.