Safety at Home in the Holidays

With schools and work closed over the December period, it’s important to check in on family and friends. For those who might be at risk, taking proactive steps to ensure safety is imperative. Below we share some useful tips which can be shared.

• If a situation or a particular individual feels dangerous or threatening, prioritise personal safety and the safety of children.
• Create a safety plan, which includes a quick escape route, a designated safe location, and a list of trusted individuals to call upon if needed.
• Educate children about the safety plan without alarming them, ensuring they know what to do if there’s an emergency.
• Talk to a trusted family member, friend or neighbour, so they are aware and can check in or help if situations escalate.
• Having a discreet code word with a trusted person can be helpful, so they can call 000 if you can’t.

There are helplines available to offer assistance and guidance.

• Always dial Triple Zero (000) in immediate danger or an emergency and ask for the police
• The 1800RESPECT helpline is the National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service. Call 1800 737 732
• Domestic Violence Line at 1800 656 463
• Lifeline at 13 11 14
• Link2Home at 1800 152 152.

People’s and children’s safety should always be everyone’s top priority, and these resources are available to help, support and protect.

Read more on safety planning