Why this matters
Map safe people, places and official services before a crisis. Agree code words or check-in methods where appropriate, but avoid complicated systems that could confuse people under pressure.
Security measures should be lawful, proportionate and nonviolent. Good lighting, working locks, controlled information, neighbour contact and clear safeguarding procedures are usually more useful than confrontation or weapon-focused planning.
Before disruption
Prepare now
- Identify trusted contacts and reputable local safeguarding, abuse, trafficking and victim-support services.
- Keep doors, windows, outdoor lighting and privacy settings maintained.
- Agree who may collect children or support dependent adults and how identity will be checked.
- Protect documents, addresses, medical details and live locations from unnecessary sharing.
- Plan a discreet way to request help if speaking openly may be unsafe.
When it is happening
Protect the next decision
- Move toward a safer public, staffed or trusted place when doing so does not increase danger.
- Contact emergency or specialist safeguarding services through verified channels.
- Listen without blame, preserve evidence when safe and do not confront a suspected abuser if it raises risk.
- Record important times, descriptions and actions without posting them publicly.
Plan for real people
Access, care and inclusion
- Recognise that institutional, shelter and household settings can all contain safeguarding risks.
- Provide private, accessible ways for children and adults to report concerns.
- Do not remove autonomy from disabled or older adults merely because an emergency is occurring.
- Consider language, immigration status, discrimination and distrust of authorities when offering routes to help.
Mental readiness
Protect morale and clear thinking
- Predictable check-ins and respectful boundaries increase safety and calm.
- Avoid rumours that label unfamiliar people or groups as threats.
- Use de-escalation, distance and professional help rather than proving bravery through confrontation.
Common mistakes
What to avoid
- Publishing the location of vulnerable people, shelters or private aid arrangements.
- Using fear to justify discrimination, vigilantism or coercive control.
- Promising confidentiality that cannot be kept when someone faces immediate serious harm.
Evidence and review
Sources behind this guide
Prepare Now uses authoritative government, humanitarian and public-health material as a starting point. Source advice can be specific to a country, hazard or date, so check the current version for your location.
- The Sphere HandbookSphere Association
- Make a PlanNew Zealand National Emergency Management Agency
- Public Awareness and Public Education for Disaster Risk ReductionInternational Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies
- Make an Emergency PlanPublic Safety Canada
Editorial status: first staging edition. Safety-critical instructions will receive specialist and jurisdiction review before public launch.