What can I do to stay safe?

Planning for your safety and your children's safety is critical. It may be helpful to discuss a safety plan with a Domestic Violence Victim Advocate. Advocates are available for ongoing support and help at community-based agencies and in many law enforcement and prosecution agencies. A safety plan may include the following:

Planning Ahead

  • Recognize the signs of abuse.
  • Develop a plan with your children.
  • Teach them how to call 9-1-1.
  • Have a safe place to go where the abuser can't find you.
  • Talk to an advocate at a community agency
  • Make copies of important papers and hide them
  • Have important phone numbers available.
  • Pack and hide important items in an overnight bag for you and your children (i.e., clothes, papers, medication).
  • Put aside money and spare keys.
  • Consider getting a Domestic Violence Protection Order.
  • Use a computer and/or smartphone that can't be monitored by the abuser.

During an Incident

  • Call for help (9-1-1)! When calling from a cell phone, say your location first.
  • Get out if you can.
  • Bring important items listed above.

If you Can't Leave the Situation

  • Call for help (9-1-1)!
  • Avoid rooms that are easily accessible to potential weapons such as the kitchen, bathroom, and garage.
  • Avoid rooms with only one exit.

In your House 

  • Change locks, secure doors and windows, change passwords on accounts.
  • Arrange to have someone stay with you.
  • Change your phone number.
  • Notify trusted friends, family and neighbors.

At the Workplace, School and Public Places

  • Inform your work, daycare, school, trusted family, friends and neighbors
  • Give them copies of Protection/No Contact Orders.
  • Change your daily routine.

Police

Sue Rahr, Interim Chief of Police
Address: 610 5th Avenue, Seattle, WA, 98104-1900
Mailing Address: PO Box 34986, Seattle, WA, 98124-4986
Phone: (206) 625-5011
Contact Us

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The Seattle Police Department (SPD) prevents crime, enforces laws, and supports quality public safety by delivering respectful, professional, and dependable police services. SPD operates within a framework that divides the city into five geographical areas called "precincts".