Safety Planning

Whether you are ready to exit or not, you should have a safety plan. Each plan will look different for each person. To get you started we’ve written examples of what other people have included in their safety plans:

Establish a code word or phrase

Identify a code word or phrase that can be used to signal that you are in danger and need help. Share this code word or phrase with friends, family, or other trusted individuals who can help you in an emergency.

Create a support network

Identify friends, family, or other trusted people who can provide emotional support, help you access medical care, or assist with other needs in case of an emergency. Reach out to community resources if you don't have anyone in your circle you can trust.

Learn self-defense techniques

Learn basic self-defense techniques and carry self-defense tools, such as pepper spray or a personal alarm, to use in case of an emergency. You can also learn de-escalation techniques.

Keep a record of information

Keep a record of client or employer information, including their name, phone number, and physical description, in case you need to report an incident to the authorities. If your lived experience includes commercial sex utilize a bad date list. Many places have regional lists you can find by Googling “bad date list”.

Have a plan for emergency situations

Identify nearby safe places where you can go in case of an emergency, such as a police station or a hospital. Have emergency contact numbers stored in your phone or written down in a safe place. Memorize important numbers and hotlines if possible.

Keep your location private

Avoid sharing your location on social media or other online platforms and be cautious about sharing personal information with clients.

Trust your instincts

If a situation feels unsafe, trust your instincts and remove yourself from that situation as soon as possible.

Seek out resources

Research and know the resources available to you in your community such as support groups, legal aid, and health clinics that specifically cater to the needs of people in commercial sex or at-risk of labor exploitation. Visit Survive & Thrive Advocacy Center’s Get Help page to review resources that might be right for you.

Safety check-ins

Set up regular safety check-ins with friends or family, so they know when to expect to hear from you and can take action if they don't hear from you.

Emotional safety

Safety planning can be emotionally taxing. Short breaks can help reduce stress and maintain clarity. You can seek emotional support from a trusted friend, mentor, or counselor who can provide encouragement and understanding throughout the process.

Have a plan for leaving

Have a plan in place for leaving commercial sex or exploitative labor if you choose to do so, including financial support, housing, and counseling resources.

Remember

Every step you take toward creating your safety plan is an act of courage and resilience. Start small, like memorizing a hotline number or identifying a trusted person for check-ins. Every action counts.