Domestic Violence Safety Tips

July 3, 2026

Trust Your Instincts.

  • Trust your gut feeling, if something feels off or uncomfortable remove yourself from the situation.
  • Seek help if needed.
  • consider carrying personal safety items (pepper spray, whistles, alarms)

Know Your Limits.

  • Be cautious with alcohol and substances, they can impair your judgement and make you more vulnerable.
  • Keep an eye on your drinks.

Emergency Planning

  • identify safe exits from your home (windows,elevators,or stairwells)
  • Discuss your situation with a neighbor, friend or family and establish a code word to signal for help.
  • know your local shelters, hotlines, and legal resources to access support quickly.
  • Create a personalized safety plan to outline steps for leaving safely and maintaining security.

Support and Resources

  •  National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 or TTY 1-800-787-3224
  •   National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-6564673 or online chat at https://hotline.rainn.org/online
  • Haven of the Dan River Region hotline 434-483-5482 or 434-554-0605