Domestic Violence Recovery and Emergency Safety Planning¶

Escaping an abusive relationship or recovering from domestic violence requires careful safety planning to protect yourself and your children.

Do this now¶

1. Call local domestic violence hotlines. Contact a local or national domestic violence helpline from a safe phone. In the United States, call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text "START" to 88788 for free 24-hour confidential support.
2. Pack an emergency go bag. Store essential documents (birth certificates, passports, social security cards, custody papers, medication, cash, spare keys) in a safe location outside the home (such as at a trusted friend's house or workplace).
3. Use a safe, unmonitored device. Abusers often monitor phones, browsing history, and location tracking apps. Use a computer at a public library, workplace, or a safe friend's phone to plan your exit.
4. Locate an emergency shelter. Domestic violence organizations provide confidential emergency housing, food, legal advocacy, and protection order assistance.

... danger "Immediate danger" If your partner is actively threatening you or in possession of weapons, leave immediately if safe to do so, or call your local emergency service (911 in North America, 112 in Europe, 999 in the UK).

Long term recovery and protective orders¶

• File for a protective or restraining order: Court orders legally prohibit an abuser from contacting you, visiting your home, or approaching your workplace.
• Change security routines: Change lock codes, passwords, phone numbers, and daily travel routes. Disable location sharing on all family devices.

Related guides¶

• Domestic violence
• Being followed
• Mental health crisis
• Emergency numbers