The Importance of Safety Planning for Teens 

At Crossroads Safehouse, one of the most important tools we use when working with survivors is safety planning. A safety plan helps individuals think ahead about possible risks, identify available resources, and create a strategy to stay as safe as possible. 

For teens, safety planning follows the same goal, but with unique considerations. During our Time to Talk program, we encourage students to create personalized safety plans that fit their own needs. These plans may include: 

• How to leave a harmful situation safely 

• Escape routes if a violent incident occurs 

• Staying safe in private and public spaces 

• Identifying trusted people to turn to for help 

Because every situation is different, each safety plan is unique and designed by the individual. This helps give teens a sense of control and autonomy over their own safety. 

For many teens, a dating partner is also a classmate, which means school safety is a big concern. If a relationship becomes abusive, students may need extra precautions to stay safe. 

Some important steps teens can take include: 

• Parking in well-lit, busy areas 

• Identifying safe places on campus 

• Building a support network of trusted teachers, counselors, or staff 

If a student shares classes with an abusive partner, they are encouraged to reach out to a trusted adult at school to ensure school can remain a safe place.  

By learning about safety planning, teens can feel more prepared and confident in handling unhealthy situations. Through Time to Talk, we give students the tools they need to recognize warning signs, create safety plans, and build healthy relationships. 

If you or someone you know may need help, reach out to a trusted adult or resource. No one should have to face an unsafe situation alone. Our advocates are available 24/7 through our crisis line: 970-482-3535 

Click below for your free PDF of the safety plan we share with teens during our Time To Talk presentations.