When someone in your home or close to you owns a firearm, safety planning becomes especially important, especially if there are signs of anger, control, fear, or emotional distress. In Canada, firearms are often part of rural life, sport, or hunting culture, but when violence or threats are present, they can quickly turn a dangerous situation into a deadly one. Having a plan does not mean you expect the worst, it means you’re being prepared, just in case. A good safety plan gives you a sense of control and helps you act quickly if you ever feel unsafe.

Why Safety Planning Matters

When a gun is present in a home, the risk of being killed in a domestic violence situation increases five times. This statistic alone shows why taking early precautions is essential.

A safety plan helps you think through what to do if a situation turns violent or threatening. It helps you prepare both emotionally and practically so you are not caught off guard when things escalate.Even if you think the person would never actually use the gun, trust your instincts. If you feel scared or threatened, that’s enough reason to make a plan.

Step 1: Know the Warning Signs

Before creating your plan, it’s important to recognize the red flags.
Some warning signs that a firearm might be misused include:

• Threats to harm you, others, or themselves
• Sudden anger or rage when challenged
• Obsessive jealousy or controlling behaviour
  
• Talking about “not having anything to live for”
• Increased alcohol or drug use
• Refusing to store firearms safely
• History of violence or animal abuse

If any of these sound familiar, take them seriously. Don’t wait for things to get worse before reaching out for help.

Step 2: Make a Personal Safety Plan

A personal safety plan is a list of steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones. It includes what to do in an emergency, where to go, and who to call.

Here are some ideas to include in your plan:

1. Safe exits: Know at least two ways to leave your home quickly, such as a back door or a window.
2. Emergency bag: Pack a small bag with essentials (ID, cash, medications, important papers, keys). Keep it somewhere easy to grab or with a trusted friend.
3. Code word: Create a secret word or phrase to tell family or friends when you need help or for them to call 911.
4. Documents and digital safety: Take photos or copies of important documents, like firearm licences or threatening messages, and store them safely (not on shared devices).
5. Trusted people: Identify who you can call in an emergency, a neighbour, a relative, or a local shelter.
6. Know where to go: Plan safe places nearby, such as a friend’s house, a women’s shelter, or a police station.

You can find templates for safety plans on  womenalert.ca  or through local organizations that support victims of violence.

Step 3: Use Red Flag Laws for Extra Protection

If you believe someone with access to firearms is a danger to themselves or others, you can apply for a Red Flag Order. Red Flag laws let anyone, including family, friends, or neighbours ask a judge to temporarily remove or limit that person’s access to firearms.

There are two main types:

• Emergency Prohibition Order : Police can immediately remove firearms and ammunition.
• Emergency Limitation on Access Order: Stops the person from buying, borrowing, or accessing guns.

These orders are confidential and can save lives by creating a short window of safety while the situation is assessed. If you are unsure how to start, local legal aid offices or community support organizations can guide you through the process.

Step 4: Stay Safe Digitally

Many people overlook digital safety, but it’s an important part of planning. If you’re worried your phone or computer might be monitored:

• Use a different device (like a library computer or a friend’s phone) to look for help.
• Clear your browser history after visiting safety websites.
• Avoid discussing your plan through text messages or shared email accounts.

Remember, technology can be used to track or intimidate. Protecting your privacy helps keep your plan secure.

Step 5: Reach Out for Support

You don’t have to face this alone. There are many organizations in Canada that can help you with safety planning, legal advice, and emotional support.

YoTalk 4 Healing (for Indigenous Women): 1-855-554-HEAL
Kids Help Phone (24/7) — 1-800-668-6868 (youth) and text/chat options. 

BC CYAC NetworkVancouver Coastal Health – Forensic Nursing Service (VGH) — confidential medical care and evidence collection (with or without police report) within 7 days of an assault. vsdvalliance.org
Salal Sexual Violence Support Centre (formerly WAVAW) — 24-hour crisis line, hospital accompaniment, counselling. 24-h line: 604-255-6344. NNEDV

Chimo Community Services (Richmond) — STV individual counselling; Mandarin/Cantonese available. 604-279-7077. chimoservices.com
KUU-US Crisis Line (Indigenous-specific, 24/7) — Adults/Elders lines and toll-free access. Hope for Wellness 

Trained advocates can help you create a plan that fits your unique situation, especially when firearms are involved.

Step 6: Keep Checking In With Yourself

Safety planning isn’t something you do once and forget. Situations can change quickly. Review your plan often, especially if:

• The person’s behaviour becomes more aggressive
• There are new firearms in the home
• You’re planning to leave the relationship
• You notice signs of depression or suicidal thoughts

Firearms can make a dangerous situation much more deadly, but you are not powerless. With planning, awareness, and support, you can take real steps to protect yourself and others.Creating a safety plan is not a sign of weakness, it’s a sign of strength. It shows that you are thinking ahead and taking your safety seriously.

If you or someone you know may be at risk, visit womenalert.ca to learn how Red Flag laws can help and where to find local resources.