• Have key emergency numbers with you and teach your children how to ring 999.
• Who can you trust and go to in an emergency? Do you have a trusted neighbour who would ring emergency services?
• Prepare and hide an emergency bag for you and your children.
• Access to your own money for travel fares etc.
• Try to keep your mobile phone safe and ensure it isn’t compromised by tracking apps.
• Where are lower risk areas of house (avoid kitchen)? where could children hide when there is an escalation of abuse?
• Have a clear, mental escape plan (written would be a risk, even in a text to a friend).
• Establish a safety word/phrase with a trusted person who you would be able to contact.
How to make a silent 999 call:
o If you’re in danger, call 999 and try to speak to the operator if you can, even by whispering. You may also be asked to cough or tap the keys on your phone to answer questions.
o Call 999 from a mobile – If you don’t speak or answer questions, press 55 or tap when prompted and your call will be transferred to the police. The police will usually be able to find your location. If you don’t press 55 or respond, your call could be ended.
o Call 999 from a landline. If you don’t speak or answer questions and the operator can only hear background noise, they’ll transfer your call to the police. If you replace the handset, the landline may remain connected for 45 seconds in case you pick it up again. Calling 999 from a landline automatically gives the police information about your location.
