Make a Safety Plan

Develop a safety plan to protect the Veteran, yourself, and other family members in the case that the Veteran becomes extremely angry or there are potentially dangerous behaviors. 

• Identify a safe room in your home; one with a door that locks and cannot be opened from the outside. Have access to a phone and call 911 if necessary.
• Create a code word or sign that can be used to alert family and friends or neighbors that you need help.
• Create a weapons safety plan with your Veteran to protect them again lethal means during moments of crisis. More information is available in the Home Safety module. 
• Have a packed bag ready with copies of your car and house keys, money or credit cards, and important papers, such as social security cards, and birth certificates for you and your children. Hide this bag in your home or store it with a trusted friend or family member.

If you notice behaviors that cause concern about your safety, or the Veteran's safety, contact your Caregiver Support Program Staff, Primary Care team member, or other VA staff.  For the safety of the Veteran and your family, all weapons should be locked and stored safely. Please refer to module 3, Home Safety, for more details on protecting your home.