Here is some information and answers to common questions about safety planning, especially for our immigrant communities.
What is a safety plan?
A safety plan is a community resource to help parents prepare for emergencies. The plan contains important documents and instructions for the care of their child(ren) if a parent is unable to care for them.
Why do I need a safety plan? A safety plan can help ensure the safety, well-being, and continuity of care of family members incase of detention, deportation, or other emergencies.
Who should do a safety plan?
All parents, regardless of documentation status, should have a safety plan. However, it isespecially crucial for families who face potential separation, detainment, or deportation.
What should a safety plan include?
You will want to make sure that you have a plan in place that includes updated school emergency contact numbers, caregiver authorization, immunization and medical records, and important documents like birth certificates, social security cards, and passports. Here is a complete checklist of what should be included in the safety plan.
Know your rights:
Everyone, both documented and undocumented, has rights in this country. Make sure you, your family members (even children), housemates, neighbors, and co-workers—regardless of documentation status—know of their right to remain silent and other rights if ICE or the police come to your home, neighborhood, or workplace. A list of these rights can be found here.
Resources:
- Legal Counsel for Youth and Children for resources in English and Spanish
- Northwest Immigrant Rights Project for legal help
- Washington Immigrant Solidarity Network
- The WAISN text-message alert system sends out SMS text notifications about ICE activity in Washington. You can choose to receive alerts in English and Spanish. Text “ICE” or “Migra” to 509-300-4959
- Protecting Immigrant Families