The most important thing for victims of domestic violence is safety. If you are in an abusive situation, you must develop a safety plan.
You can call our 24-hour, toll-free hotline at 1-800-500-1119, or 904-225-9979, and an advocate will help you create a safety plan.
Think ahead when developing a safety plan....
When in the home, stay out of rooms with no exits. Stay away from anything that could be used as weapons. Keep a spare key hidden, where no one will find it, in case you have to run out the door.
Where will you go if you have to leave? Who can you trust to tell? What important documents do you need for yourself and your children?
If you are planning on leaving an abusive situation, be careful who you tell about your situation, even your children. It may be best to not tell them at all.
You do not need to bring all of your belongings when you leave. We have what you need at the shelter.
Do not write your safety plan down. An abuser may find it.
These are just the basics of developing a safety plan. We can help you develop a personalized safety plan, to include how you will leave, what you will bring, or how to stay safe if you are not ready to leave.
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