Child Advocacy · Safety Planning

Creating a Safety Plan When Home Isn’t Safe

If home does not feel safe, you are not alone, and you are not without options. A safety plan is a personal, practical tool that helps you stay protected and know exactly what to do when a difficult situation happens.

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What Is a Safety Plan?

A safety plan is a set of steps you decide on in advance before a crisis happens so that if things escalate at home, you already know what to do, where to go, and who to call. It does not mean you are giving up on your family. It means you are taking care of yourself.

Safety plans are used by youth workers, school counsellors, and child protection professionals around the world because they work. Having a clear plan reduces panic and increases your chances of getting to safety quickly.

Step 1: Identify Your Safe People

Think of at least two trusted adults outside your immediate home, a relative, a neighbour, a teacher, a coach, a family friend. These are people you can call or go to if things get unsafe. Tell them they are on your list if you feel comfortable doing so.

Write their names and phone numbers somewhere you can access without a phone and memorize at least one number.

Step 2: Know Your Exits

Walk through your home and identify every way out, the front door, back door, and window if necessary. Know which route gets you to a neighbour or a public space the fastest. If you share a room with a sibling, include a plan for them too.

Step 3: Prepare a Go-Bag (If Possible)

A go-bag does not need to be large. A small backpack with the following can make a significant difference:

• A phone or access to one (save emergency numbers)
• ID or a copy of it, if you have access
• Any essential medication
• A small amount of cash, if possible
• A written list of your safe people and their numbers
• A change of clothes

Keep this somewhere accessible but not obvious. You do not need to explain it to anyone.

Step 4: Know Where to Go

Identify at least one place you can go if you leave quickly: a friend’s house, a relative’s home, a community centre, a school, or a shelter. In Canada, youth shelters exist in most cities and are free. You do not need a parent’s permission to access them if you are in danger.

Step 5: Know the Numbers

Memorize or save these before you need them. In a real crisis, searching for help takes time you may not have.

If You Are Not Ready to Leave

A safety plan does not require you to leave right now. Many young people stay in difficult situations while working with a counsellor or social worker to find a longer-term solution. Having a plan simply means you are prepared if the situation changes suddenly.

Talking to a school counsellor, Kids Help Phone counsellor, or another trusted adult is always a valid first step, even if you are not ready to do anything else yet.

This article is for informational purposes only. Safety planning needs vary by individual situation. If you are in immediate danger, call 911. For personalized support, connect with a counsellor through Kids Help Phone or a local crisis service. See our Resources & Help page for regional contacts.