Safety

A victim cannot control the abusive actions of others, but they can take steps to protect themselves from harm. If you are a victim, developing a safety plan specific to you and your life is a practical guide that helps lower the risk of being hurt by your abuser. Begin by answering these questions.

• What is the safest way for me to get to and from class?
• Where on campus do I run into my abuser?
• Are there places on campus where it is impossible to avoid my abuser? If I need to go to one of those places, who can I ask to go with me?
• If I feel threatened or unsafe where I am at, where can go to feel safe?
• Who can I tell about what is going on in my relationship?
• What is the safest way for me to leave my place of residence in an emergency?
• Do I have a bag ready with these important items in case I need to leave quickly? 
  • Cell phone and charger
  • Spare money and keys
  • Driver's license (or other form of ID)
  • Copy of protection order
  • Change of clothes
  • Medications
  • Special photos or other valuable items
  • Birth certificate, social security card and other important documents
  • If you have children, anything they may need (important papers, formula, diapers, etc.)

It's also a good idea to use a code word to alert family, friends or roommates to call for help without an abuser knowing about it. What would your code word be? And who would you share it with?