Safety Plan

Written by Cassandra Cherry, Founder of The Ark of Noah

Being in a home where abuse is occurring is extremely sensitive, challenging, and unpredictable.  Being in a home where abuse is occurring with children, can be even more volatile.  Now, add in non-traditional factors (due to the pandemic), like working from home, schooling from home, unexpected loss of work, and limited ability to have the outlet of doing normal day to day activities.  This can be extremely overwhelming for many parents and even the children.  Unfortunately, this is our current state.  Many US households are being affected at an alarming rate and that requires additional support for those who are experiencing abuse.  With increases in domestic violence calls impacting women and children, it is critical that we get EVERY woman the support that she needs.  One way to do this is through building a safety plan.  Below are a few tips (not an all-inclusive list) of things one may want to consider or have in place at any given time.

Safety Planning Tips (During Relationship)

• Keep a phone with you at all times (if possible).  Store important numbers where you are able to easily access them in case of emergency.
• Create a code word(s) or signal(s) for emergency situations with one or two trusted people.  Be clear and concise what the word or signal means and what action the trusted person is to take.
• Teach and use code word(s) and/or signals with children or others in the home that make it simple and clear to them about what action to take, should a situation arise.
• Park the car in a position you can easily access the vehicle in an emergency situation.
• When possible have emergency money available to you and have an emergency safe place you can stay.  (For example, with a trusted friend/family member).
• Identify and share with your children or others in the home, the safe area in the home.  Try to avoid rooms with one exit and/or rooms where additional hazards may exist (if possible).
• During an incident of abuse, if it occurs, protect your children (if in immediate danger) and protect your head and body as best as possible.

This is a starting point to a more comprehensive safety plan.  A safety plan does not replace contacting 911, if you feel you need to.   The Ark of Noah can assist you with creating a more comprehensive safety plan.  Please contact us.