Safety Planning

If you are experiencing domestic violence, our top priority is YOUR SAFETY.

You may wish to discuss safety planning with one of our counselors. Leaving is not your only option.

If you do decide to leave it is important to consider you may be in the most danger when you leave the abuser.

It may be difficult to gain custody of your children at that time. Remember, they need you to meet their safety needs. Planning for your safety can help protect you and your children.

Important items to take when you leave:

Driver’s license, car title and registration
Children’s birth certificates
Your birth, marriage or divorce certificates
Green cards, social security cards
Money, credit cards, ATM card
Copy of your protection order
Lease rental agreement or deed to the house
Checkbook and bank books
House and car keys
Medications, medical records
Children’s small toys, blankets

Abusers monitor computer use!

If you need to exit quickly click the quick escape button. The quick escape button can be found at the top of each page on this Web site.

Please remember:

If you think your computer activities are being monitored, they probably are. Abusive people are often controlling and want to know your every move.
Computer hard drives, browsers, and other software programs store history about what you have done, what documents you have used, what Web sites you have visited, what images you have seen, and other activities. It may be impossible to completely clear this stored information from your computer.
If you are afraid your Internet and/or computer usage might be monitored, please use a safer computer or call our hotline at 1-877-IN-CRISIS or 605-339-0116.
A “safer computer” is one that your abuser does not have direct access to. Locations include the public library, community center or even at a friend’s house.

if you are a parent...

Say what you feel, lovingly.
Be patient.
Listen to your child.
Set limits together and make a safety plan.
Avoid making decisions FOR your child.
Be familiar with the support available to you in the community.

if you are a victim...

Sexual Assault

Go to a safe place.
Do not shower.
Seek medical attention.
Connect with The Compass Center for emotional support and advocacy at (605) 339-0116 or 877-IN CRISIS.

Domestic Violence

Talk with someone you trust.
Create an “emergency kit” of things you would need if you leave suddenly.
Connect with The Compass Center at (605) 339-0116 or 877-IN CRISIS.
Call the police if you are in danger.

if you are a perpetrator...

Abuse is:

Calling bad names or putting someone down
Shouting and cursing
Hitting, slapping and/or pushing
Making threats of any kind
Jealousy and suspicion
Keeping someone away from family and friends
Throwing things around the house

Domestic violence is a crime. It destroys relationships and families.

If you abuse, you can choose to stop.
Call The Compass Center at (605) 339-0116 or 877-IN CRISIS.

if you are a caring friend...

Don’t be afraid to share your concern for your friend’s safety.
Acknowledge that your friend is in a difficult and perhaps scary situation.
Be supportive.
Be non-judgmental.
Encourage your friend to reach out for professional support and guidance.
Remember that you cannot “rescue” your friend.