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Imminent Danger

ARE YOU BEING STALKED? THINGS YOU CAN DO
(National Center for Victims of Crime)

Stalking Safety Tips

If in imminent danger, locate a safe place. Consider going to:

  • Police Station
  • Residences of family or friends (locations unknown to the perpetrators)
  • Domestic violence shelters
  • Place of worship
  • Public areas (some stalkers may be less inclined toward violence or creating a disturbance in public places).

Safety at home:

  • Identify escape routes out of your house. Teach them to your children.
  • Install solid core doors with dead bolts. If all keys cannot be accounted for, change the locks and secure the spare keys. Fix any broken windows or doors.
  • Have a code word you use with your children that tells them when they need to leave.
  • Inform neighbors and, if residing in an apartment, any on-site managers about the situation, providing them with a photo or description of the stalker and any vehicles they may drive if known. Ask your neighbors to call the police if they see the stalker at your house. Agree on a signal you will use when you need them to call the police.
  • Pack a bag with important items you’d need if you had to leave quickly. Put the bag in a safe place, or give it to a friend or relative you trust.
  • Consider putting together a “stalking sack” that includes the stalking log, a camera, information about the offender, etc.

Safety at work and school:

  • Give a picture of the stalker to security and friends at work and school.
  • Tell your supervisors. They have a responsibility to keep you safe at work.
  • Ask a security guard to walk you to your car or to the bus.
  • If the stalker contacts you, save any voicemails, text messages, and e-mails.
  • Give the school or daycare center a copy of your protective order. Tell them not to release your children to anyone without talking to you first.
  • Make sure your children know to tell a teacher or administrator at school if they see the stalker.
  • Make sure that the school and work know not to give your address or phone number to anyone.
  • Keep a copy of your protective order at work.