Question 1

Step 1: Think about your daily routine

Accepted Answer

Write down the places you go every day, like:

Home
Work or school
Childcare
Grocery store
Friend or family homes

Ask yourself:
“Where do I feel the most unsafe?”
“Where do I feel the most safe?”

This helps you understand where you may need extra protection.

Question 2

Step 2: Identify safe people

Accepted Answer

Choose trusted people who can help in an emergency:

A friend
A family member
A neighbor
A coworker
An advocate or hotline counselor

Ask them:
“If I call or text a certain word, can you call 911 for me?”
or
“Can I come to your home if I need a safe place for a short time?”

Question 3

Step 3: Plan for emergencies

Accepted Answer

Think about what you would do if you needed help fast.

Your plan can include:

Keep your phone charged and with you.
Know the quickest exits in your home or building.
Teach children how to call 911 safely.
Create a code word to signal “I need help now.”

Code word example: “I forgot the blue folder.”

Question 4

Step 4: Pack a small “go bag”

Accepted Answer

Keep it in a safe place, or store it with someone you trust.

Items can include:

ID and important papers
Medications
Keys
Prepaid phone
A change of clothes
Cash or a debit card
Phone chargers

If it’s not safe to pack a bag, try taking photos of important documents or saving them in a private folder.

Question 5

Step 5: Plan for your children

Accepted Answer

Think about:

Who can pick them up from school in an emergency
Their safe words
Teaching them not to get involved in fights
Who they can call if they feel scared

School staff, coaches, or daycare teachers can also help support a safety plan.

Question 6

Step 6: Keep your digital life safe

Accepted Answer

Your safety plan should include online steps too:

Use strong passwords
Turn off location sharing
Check for unknown apps
Use private browsing for sensitive searches
Have a safe email address that only you use

Learn more on the Digital Safety page.

Question 7

Step 7: Plan for leaving (only if it feels safe for you)

Accepted Answer

Leaving can be the most dangerous time. You do not have to include this step unless it is safe.

If you choose to make a leaving plan:

Pick a safe time to leave
Know where you will go
Bring important items and documents
Make sure someone you trust knows your plan

You can also call a hotline or advocate for help building this part.

Make a Plan

How-To Guide: Build a personalized safety plan

Keeping Your Address Private

More Resources