Blue Shield of California Foundation

 

Safety Planning Checklist

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A safety plan helps victims collect information to aid themselves, their children and supporters if their safety is threatened. A safety plan can also help coworkers, managers, security officers and other key people support the victim when necessary.

If there is an immediate risk, call 911 first, and then call the Domestic Violence Hotline number or local crisis line.

Download a printable (pdf) version of this checklist.

Protection or Restraining Order
Obtain a protection or restraining order and make sure it is current.

Emergency Contact Numbers
Maintain a list of contact numbers of designated company personnel (human resources, supervisor, security), police, doctors, childcare workers and shelter contacts.

Travel Route Between Home and Work
Have a map and description of the usual travel route and method of travel to and from work.

Alternative Safe Route
Work out an alternative route and method of travel.

Vehicle Descriptions
Write down each vehicle's make, model, color and license number.

Parking
Arrange a parking space close to the entrance and have someone walk the victim to and from the car. Find out if there are car pools that can provide transportation.

Photo of Abuser
Provide a photo to appropriate staff including reception, supervisors and human resources. Do not violate privacy and confidentiality of the situation -- focus on what to do if the person shows up, not on the reason behind the photo distribution.

Escape Route and Safe Places in the Workplace
Plan an escape route and locate safe places within the office. Alert coworkers who assist with workplace safety. Do not violate privacy and confidentiality of the situation -- focus on what to do in potential or violent circumstances, not the details of this situation.

Methods to Summon Help
Come up with code words and security buttons to use when the victim needs help.

Specific Health Information
Gather medical records, prescription information, doctors' names and phone numbers, copies of x-rays or other health information.

Child Care Options
Compile a list of family, friends, neighbors or onsite child care centers that can help with children. Local shelters may have safe houses available.

Copies of Important Documents
Make copies of documents such as driver's license, passport, birth certificates, Social Security card, bank accounts, credit card information, insurance papers and any other documents that may help the victim break free and establish independence. Store these copies in a safe place outside of the home.

Other Resources

Contact the California Family and Domestic Violence Referral Directory or the National Domestic Violence Hotline (800-799-SAFE, 800-787-3224 for the hearing impaired) for a list of resources in your area, including:

  • Shelters and related services -- safe, temporary housing and meals; support groups, individual counseling and court advocacy
  • Court advocates and legal services -- assistance in restraining orders, child support, divorce and custody and visitation. Many court advocate services are free or low cost.
  • Domestic violence counselors or therapists -- professionals in private practice or community agencies specialize in working with victims of abuse or batterers.
  • Community services -- temporary housing, emergency cash, food and clothing for people in crisis.
  • Batterers intervention programs -- court-mandated treatment for people convicted of battering.

 

Additional Resources