Developing a Safety Plan
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1. Every individual in an abusive relationship needs a safety plan.
In developing your safety plan, you should individualize it, taking into account:
  • Age
  • Marital status
  • Whether children are involved
  • Geographic location
  • Immigration status
  • Public assistance status
  • And resources available
2. Think about all possible escape routes:
  • Doors
  • First-floor windows
  • Basement exists
  • Elevators
  • Stairwells
  • Fire escapes
  • Rehearse if possible
[EXIT]
3. Choose a place to go:
  • To the home of a friend or relative who will offer unconditional support
  • To a domestic violence shelter
  • Or a motel, hotel, YMCA or YWCA
  • Most importantly, somewhere you will feel safe
[Home]
4. Pack a survival kit:
  • Money for cab fare
  • Metrocard or tokens
  • A change of clothes
  • Extra house and car keys

    Originals or copies of important documents, such as:

  • Birth certificates
  • Passports, greencards, and other immigration papers
  • Medical records
  • Medications and copies of prescriptions
  • Insurance information
  • Checkbook and credit cards
  • Legal documents such as separation agreements and protective orders
  • Address books and valuable jewelry
  • Papers that show jointly owned assets
  • Police records
  • Children's school records and immunization records

  • Conceal it in the home, or leave it with a trusted neighbor, relative or friend
  • Important Papers can also be left in a bank deposit box
[Keys and Prescriptions]
5. Start an Individual Savings account
  • Have statements sent to a trusted relative or friend.

    OR

  • Save cash with a trusted relative or friend.
[MONEY]
6. Avoid arguments in certain areas
  • Avoid arguments with the abuser in areas with potential weapons.
  • Kitchen, garage, or in small spaces without an outside door.
7. Contact the Domestic Violence Hotline
  • The New York City Hotline Number is 1-800-621-HOPE

  • The New York State Hotline Number is 1-800-942-6906 (English)

  • The New York State Hotline Number is 1-800-942-6908 (Spanish)

  • Contact it for information on resources and legal rights
[Phone]
8. Review the Safety Plan monthly
  • Review the safety plan
[Reminder]