Safety Plan
After you have left an abusive situation, there may still be some risks and considerations you can make for the safety of yourself, your children, and your pets. The following are parts of a safety plan that you should consider. Our Client Support team can help you create a safety plan that will work best for you as you move forward and away from abuse.
Getting a cell phone.
Odyssey House may be able to provide you with a cell phone that is programmed to only call 911. These phones are for when you need to call the police and cannot get to any other phone.
Getting an EPO from the court.
Keep a copy with you all the time. Give a copy to the police, people who take care of your children, their schools, and your boss. If the abuser breaches the conditions of the EPO, notify the RCMP immediately.
Improve security.
Changing the locks if you are remaining in the family home. Consider putting in stronger doors, smoke, and carbon monoxide detectors, a security system, and outside lights.
Inform friends, neighbors, and service providers.
Telling friends and neighbors that your abuser no longer lives with you. Ask them to call the police if they see your abuser near your home or children. Telling people who take care of your children the names of people who are allowed to pick them up. If you have an EPO protecting your children, give their teachers and babysitters a copy.
Inform your work.
Tell someone at work about what has happened. Ask that person to screen your calls. If you have an EPO that includes where you work, consider giving your boss a copy and a picture of the abuser. Think about and practice a safety plan for your workplace. This should include going to and from work.
Change your routine.
Consider using different stores or businesses than what you did when you were with your abuser. Take a different route when transporting your children to and from school.
Stay safe around your abuser.
If you must speak to your abuser, do so in a safe place.
Find support.
Have someone that you can call if you feel down. Call that person if you are considering going to a support group or workshop. Odyssey House offers a 24/7 crisis line, as well as support groups that you can attend.
Go over your safety plan often.
