What to do in case of threat of violence
Violence can be difficult to recognize, especially mental violence. You might not be certain if there is a real threat of violence or not. Your safety is paramount. If you feel you are in immediate danger, do not hesitate to call 112 or 016 and go to a safe place.
Remember that you can always ask for help and go somewhere safe. Violence does not need to be physical; a threat of violence can also be a reason to seek shelter.
Domestic violence situations can be complex and unpredictable. Seek professional help from organizations experienced in gender violence cases, such as those listed on the Ministry of Equality’s website (Ministerio de igualdad).
Threats or hints of violence are also forms of violence and can escalate to physical acts of violence. There is a high risk that violence will follow a threat. In a threatening situation, do not turn your back on the aggressor. Threatening violence is a crime.
If the situation escalates from a threat to action and you cannot escape, call 112 as soon as possible. Protect your vulnerable areas, such as your head, stomach, and major arteries.
If you feel unsafe or threatened, it is crucial to take the situation seriously. Listen to your body and sensations. Trust your instincts. When a threat of violence is present, you may feel unsafe, tense, nervous, or scared. Your body and nervous system are sensing danger. Try to stay calm and observe the body language and verbal communication. You are likely the best judge of what triggers the aggressor.
You can complete the Risk Self-Assessment to evaluate potential risks.
Risk self-assessment
If the threat intensifies or you fear for your safety, create a safety plan that includes an exit strategy. You can find more information about safety planning on the Safety Plan page. A safety plan should include identifying safe spaces in your home, setting up a keyword or signal with trusted individuals, and planning escape routes to leave the house, seek temporary shelter, or stay with a trusted friend or family member.
Even if you are not ready to leave the situation temporarily or feel it is unnecessary, creating a safety plan is wise, just in case.
Anticipate the situation and consider it in your safety and escape plan. When you notice signs of tension and an increasing threat of violence, leave the situation or space using a credible excuse, such as taking out the trash or going to get food. Once at a safe distance, seek help and find shelter.
Safety plan template
Keep any evidence of threats, including text messages, emails, or voicemails. This documentation can be important for legal purposes.
Share your situation with a trusted friend, family member, or neighbor. Inform them of the threat and ask for their support.
If you are unsure about your situation, contact 016 for assistance. They can provide emotional support, resources, and connections to legal assistance if needed.
Talking with a professional or even a friend can help you evaluate your situation. You may be too close or accustomed to the threats to assess their risk yourself. Conducting a risk assessment may be beneficial. You can complete a risk self-assessment on the Risk Self-Assessment page.
Even if there has not yet been physical violence, a threat or feeling of threat is reason enough to seek help.
When the threat escalates, do not hesitate to call 112 as soon as possible. You can also contact 016 for support and guidance. They can help you assess your situation and support you in creating a safety plan. Keep emergency contacts accessible. Save emergency numbers (police, helpline, and trusted contacts) on your phone and keep them easily reachable. Accessibility for people with hearing and/or speech disabilities: SVIsual y Telesor.
016 website
If you have children, it is important to remember that the threat of domestic violence can have significant and lasting effects on minors. Witnessing or experiencing violence in the home can cause deep emotional, psychological, and developmental harm. Children can sense the threat. Seek help to support their well-being, include them in the safety plan, and practice escape drills with them.
