Title: 5 Surprising Things to Consider When Developing a Safety Plan

 

Introduction:

A safety plan is a crucial tool for anyone experiencing domestic violence, providing a roadmap to safety during emergencies. While the basic elements of a safety plan are widely known, there are some lesser-known aspects that can make all the difference. Here are 5 surprising things to consider when developing a safety plan.

 

1. Talk to an Advocate

Domestic violence professionals, like advocates, work with survivors daily and know trends and considerations that might not be immediately obvious. They can help identify risks based on your unique situation and provide a tailored plan. Advocates also have access to resources you may not know about, such as local shelters, legal options, and community support networks. If you do nothing else on this list, reach out to an advocate. If you live in the SafeHouse service area of Clay, Coosa, Chilton, or Shelby County, Alabama, call 205-669-7233. You can also reach the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233. Both hotlines will connect you with an advocate for free, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

 

2. Consider Your Digital Safety

In today’s connected world, abusers may monitor phone calls, texts, or online activity. When creating a safety plan, be mindful of the digital tools your abuser could use to track you, such your phone’s location tracking app or AirTags. AirTags are small devices can be discreetly placed in your vehicle, pet collars, children’s toys, or even household items, often in places you might not think to check but that are likely to travel with you should you flee. It’s essential to know how to detect them and what steps to take if you find one, such as removing or disabling them. You might also want to use encrypted communication apps, secure your social media accounts, and be mindful of leaving a digital trail that could alert the abuser to your whereabouts.

3. Have a Code Word or Phrase

A simple, pre-arranged code word or phrase can be invaluable when you need to alert someone to danger without the abuser knowing. This can be something subtle, like telling a friend you’re “on your way home” when you actually need help. This signal lets people know to intervene or call for assistance without tipping off the abuser.

 

4. Plan for Pet Safety

For many survivors, pets are not only companions but also victims of abuse. Fear for a pet’s safety can cause a victim to stay in an abusive relationship for years longer than they may have otherwise. Many shelters are not equipped to take animals in. Your safety plan should include options for keeping pets safe, like arranging for a friend to temporarily care for them or researching shelters that accept pets. SafeHouse partners with Shelby Safe Pet, a program that provides temporary foster care for pets of domestic violence victims.

 

5. Think About Safety After You Leave

Safety planning doesn’t end once you leave the abusive situation. Consider how to stay safe in the long term, especially if the abuser knows your new location or if you have shared custody of children. This could include changing your routine, getting a new phone number, or even moving to a different city if necessary. Continuing to plan for safety ensures you’re protected even after the immediate threat is gone.

 

Conclusion:

Developing a comprehensive safety plan requires careful thought and consideration. While tools like the National Domestic Violence Hotline’s online safety planning tool are a great starting point, having conversations with trained professionals and thinking about these surprising elements can further strengthen your plan. No one should have to navigate this process alone—reach out, stay safe, and know there are resources and support available.