Persephone's Promise

Safety Planning

Whether you are in a dangerous situation or planning ahead, these steps can help you stay safe.

Technology Safety

If someone may be monitoring your devices, consider using a computer at a library or a trusted friend's phone. You can use the Quick Exit button (bottom right) or press Escape at any time to leave this site immediately.

If You Are Currently in Danger

  • If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or leave the location if it is safe to do so.
  • Go to a safe place — a friend's home, family member, shelter, or public place like a hospital or police station.
  • If you have children, take them with you if possible.
  • Pack essential items if you can do so safely: ID, phone, medications, cash, and important documents.
  • Tell someone you trust where you are going.

Creating a Safety Plan

1. Identify safe areas in your home

Know which rooms have exits, and avoid rooms with weapons or no escape route (like bathrooms or kitchens). Practice getting out safely.

2. Prepare an emergency bag

Keep a packed bag with essentials in a safe, accessible place — or with a trusted person. Include: ID/passport, cash, medications, phone charger, change of clothes, copies of important documents.

3. Establish a code word

Create a code word with trusted friends or family that signals you need help. They should know to call for help when they hear it.

4. Know your resources

Save hotline numbers in your phone under a different name. Memorize at least one number. Know the location of your nearest shelter.

5. Document when safe

If it is safe to do so, keep records of incidents including dates, descriptions, and photographs. Store them in a secure location or with a trusted person.

6. Plan for your children

Teach your children the safety plan in age-appropriate ways. Identify a safe adult they can go to. Practice the plan together.

Digital Safety Tips

  • Use private/incognito browsing mode when researching help and resources.
  • Clear your browser history and search history regularly.
  • Be aware that phone bills may show numbers you've called. Use a friend's phone or a prepaid phone.
  • Check your phone for tracking apps or location sharing you didn't set up.
  • Change passwords to accounts from a safe device. Use a device the abuser does not have access to.
  • Be careful about posting on social media. Turn off location services for posts.
  • If you suspect your devices are being monitored, use a public computer at a library.

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