Leaving an abusive situation safely can be difficult and complicated. View some safety planning tips below, or reach out to us so we can work with you to develop a personal safety plan tailored to your specific needs and situation. Services are free and confidential.
You deserve to feel and
be safe in your home.
Plan for safety during a violent incident
- Plan how to escape your home safely with the kids and rehearse the plan with them.
- Remember the safety of your pets or service animals.
- Teach your kids when and how to dial 911 in emergencies.
- Keep your keys and a packed “go bag” ready for you to grab at a moment’s notice.
- Save emergency funds in a bank account in your name.
- Protect your digital safety by securing devices & passwords.
Safety best practices with a DVPO
- Keep a copy of your DVPO with you or near you at all times. Keep r ecords of violations.
- Give copies of your DVPO to police departments in communities where you live, work, or visit family and friends.
- Inform your employer, spiritual leader, closest friend, and relatives that you have a DVPO in effect. Provide photos of the abuser.
- Screen calls & visitors at work. Call police immediately if the DVPO is violated. Write down any evidence & names of witnesses.
What to consider taking when leaving
- IDs: Drivers license, work permits, EBT/SNAP cards, green cards, passports, social security cards
- Divorce papers, DVPOs, lease/rental agreement or house deed, health insurance paperwork, car title, registration, birth certificates & custody papers
- Computer, laptop, other devices
- Log out of all devices left behind
- Phone and charger: Transfer contacts to new or prepaid phone
- Cash, debit/credit cards, online banking app, checkbook
- Keys for house, car, work, safety deposit boxes, etc.
- Medications & assistive devices
- Pets and pet supplies
- Language support apps
- Toiletries, clothing, travel needs
- Toys and games for the kids
Tug Valley Recovery Shelter 