Family Violence Unit
Safety Planning for Victims of Domestic Violence
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Other Related Links:
How to Tell if you are in An Abusive Relationship l Printable Separation Plan Checklist
Safety Planning for Victims of Domestic Violence
- Always keep some hidden money.
- Have extra keys for the car and house.
- Have important documents and items readily available:
- Bank Accounts Social Security Numbers (Yours, partner's, and children's)
- Insurance Policies Marriage License Driver's License Valuable Jewelry
- Birth Certificates (Yours and children's) Partner's Driver's License Number
- List of Important Numbers
- Try to start an individual saving account. Have statements sent to a trusted friend or neighbor
- Have a small bag with extra clothing, copy of important documents, extra set of keys, and money hidden in one central place, such as a garage, closet, or wherever available. You only know where bag is located. Figure out what the batterer's pattern of behavior is during the violent stage and determine where the best place would be to have the bag available to you, if you need to leave quickly. If you do not have time to grab the bag, then do not worry about the bag. Leave-somewhere you feel safe, either a friend's home or the Family Abuse Center (254 772-8999). Remember the center's number, in case you ever need it.
- Avoid arguments with the abuser in areas with potential weapons, such as the kitchen, garage, bathrooms, or in small places without access to an outside door.
- Establish a secret code with family, close friends, and close neighbors in case an emergency arises. For example, if an argument starts with you and partner and you feel it will become violent, then turn on the front porch light, which could be a possible code for close neighbors to be aware of in order for them to contact the police department immediately. Remember to establish a code that will only identify your need for help. If you keep the porch light on every night or when you are away from the home, then the porch light would not be a good idea for a code.
- Contact the police department anytime you need help. Dial 911.
- Obtain a protective order, if needed. DA Office, Legal Services, and/or a family violence counselor can assist you.
- If you decide to leave the abuser and live by yourself, then always lock your doors and windows. Change locks and/or place additional locks, if needed. Inform child's daycare and/or school who has permission to pick up your child. Inform neighbors and/or landlord that your partner no longer lives with you. Show a picture to them and to your supervisor at work. Never call abuser from your new home. Screen calls at work, if needed. Request an unlisted number.
- Always be aware of your surroundings. Try to park close in well-lit areas, if you have to travel alone. Have someone escort you to your car if you receive a protective order, then always carry a copy with you.
- If have questions or desire counseling, then call 750-1745 to make an appointment with a counselor at Family Services (counselors provide individual counseling, free and confidential Monday through Friday.)
Source: Texas Council on Family Violence
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