Safety Planning for Survivors of Domestic Violence: What You Need to Know
- Keifer Griffin
- May 1
- 3 min read
For survivors of domestic violence, leaving an abusive situation is often one of the most dangerous—and most empowering—steps they can take. Safety planning is a way to prepare for that step, offering a personalized strategy to reduce risk, protect yourself and your loved ones, and make informed choices.
At Crime Victim Network (CVN), we want survivors to know: you are not alone. Help is available, and planning ahead can save lives.
In this post, we’ll walk you through the basics of creating a safety plan and provide resources to help you build one that works for your unique situation.
What Is a Safety Plan?
A safety plan is a personalized, practical plan that includes ways to remain safe while in a relationship, planning to leave, or after leaving. It can include:
Emergency contacts
Safe places to go
Legal protections
Steps for protecting children or pets
Strategies for safe communication and transportation
It’s important to update your plan as circumstances change, and to keep it confidential—especially if the abuser has access to your phone, computer, or physical belongings.
When Should I Make One?
Safety planning isn’t just for people who are ready to leave immediately. You can benefit from a plan:
While still in the relationship
During the process of leaving
After separation or divorce
When attending court or legal proceedings
If there’s been a recent escalation in violence or threats
Advocates can help you create a plan tailored to your needs at any stage.
What to Include in Your Safety Plan
1. During an Incident
Identify rooms with exits and avoid rooms with weapons (like kitchens).
Have a code word you can use with friends or children to signal danger.
Plan what you’ll say or do if an argument escalates.
2. When Planning to Leave
Set aside emergency money, ID, and important documents (birth certificates, legal papers, insurance, etc.).
Pack a “go bag” with essentials like clothes, medications, and chargers.
Choose a safe time and location to leave.
Let a trusted friend or advocate know your plan in advance.
3. After Leaving
Change locks and passwords.
Alert your employer or children’s school if necessary.
Consider filing a protective order (an advocate can help).
Stay off shared accounts and be cautious with location tracking on your phone or social media.
How to Get Help Building a Safety Plan
You don’t have to do this alone. Domestic violence advocates are trained to help survivors build personalized, secure plans. In Arizona, many shelters and community organizations offer this service for free and confidentially.
You can reach out to:
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
Or chat at thehotline.org
Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence: acesdv.org
Local domestic violence shelters and advocacy centers (search the CVN Directory)
Many of these organizations can also help with emergency shelter, legal advocacy, and financial assistance.
Final Thoughts
Planning for safety is not a sign of weakness—it’s a powerful act of self-protection and courage. Whether you’re still in the relationship or have already left, you deserve to live free from fear. Creating a safety plan is a critical step toward reclaiming your peace, your choices, and your future.
At Crime Victim Network, we’re here to help you connect with the advocates and resources you need to stay safe. Visit our Resource Directory to find support near you.
