Empowered & Prepared: National Domestic Violence Awareness Month

About This Month

October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), a time to raise awareness about domestic violence, honor survivors, remember those we have lost, and connect people with support and resources. DVAM brings communities, advocates, and supporters together to stand with survivors and work toward a future free from abuse.

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, domestic violence affects people of all backgrounds, ages, and identities. Safety planning, access to information, and community support are critical steps toward safety and healing.

What Is a Personal Safety Plan?

A personal safety plan is a practical, individualized set of strategies to help someone increase their safety in their current situation or when leaving a dangerous one. Safety plans are developed with a trained advocate and are entirely confidential.

If you are experiencing abuse, you do not have to make every decision at once. Leaving an abusive relationship can carry its own risks, and a trained advocate can help you create a safety plan based on your individual circumstances.

A safety plan may include:

• Identifying trusted people to contact in an emergency
• Knowing the location of important documents (ID, financial records)
• Understanding local shelter and legal aid options
• Developing safe communication strategies
• Considering self-defense options that are legal in your state

A safety plan can be developed with a trained advocate and tailored to an individual's specific circumstances. Advocates can help survivors think through practical steps while maintaining confidentiality within the limits of their services and applicable law.

Verified Support Resources

Need Support?

You are not alone. Help is available 24/7.

The following organizations provide free, confidential support. We list only verified, nationally recognized resources.

Empowerment Through Preparedness

Personal safety is not one-size-fits-all. For some individuals, preparedness may include learning about self-defense options, while for others it may involve building a support network, working with an advocate, identifying safe places, or creating a personalized safety plan.

For those who have independently made the legal and informed decision to carry a firearm, safe and responsible firearm ownership may be one component of a broader personal safety strategy. Proper training, secure storage, safe handling, and understanding applicable laws are important parts of responsible ownership.

At Black Rose Tactical, our mission has always been to give women more options when it comes to practical gear and personal preparedness. We believe informed decisions, education, and confidence are more important than any single piece of gear.

Black Rose Tactical does not provide legal, medical, or crisis counseling services. If you are in immediate danger, call 911. For confidential support, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.