What to expect when we visit your home and how you can prepare:
Please fill out the waiver (click here) before we begin.
We know you are experiencing what is probably the worst time in your life. We understand you are scared and anxious. We promise we will listen to you, help you, and never ask you to do anything you’re not comfortable with. Our goal is to help you feel safe and secure….especially in your own home.
First, a volunteer will contact you to get an idea of the threat you are facing so we can formulate a plan of action. Every case is different, so please divulge as much information you are comfortable telling us. We may ask if the abuser is the father/mother of your children, if they have visitation rights, if they may leave the country, the history of abuse, if they have access to the home, if is there a restraining order, if have you told others- so we can get a better read on the situation.
Next we will schedule a day and time to come to your home. We strive to do this as soon as we can. We ask that you make every effort to clear your schedule to accommodate us. If you have children it would be helpful if someone watched them during the visit or they have something to do while we are there. We never say why we are there in front of children, however If you would like them to participate, we fully encourage that.
When we arrive at your home, we conduct a security assessment and walk-through. We look for vulnerable areas your abuser may try to exploit to gain entry. Then we install security solutions such as alarms, door security bars, cameras, etc. It is HIGHLY recommended you familiarize yourself with each item and use it daily.
In addition, we discuss your daily routines, where you are vulnerable, and how to stay vigilant during those times you are not at home. Please check our personal security tab to get general tips on how to stay safe.
Lastly, we practice some basic self-defense tactics. We practice what to do in the event your abuser breaks in or confronts you on the street. We understand how this may re-trigger trauma for you, so please let us know if you’re not comfortable with any phase of the self-protection portion.
What you can do
Make yourself fully available for the visit and fill out the waiver (click here)
Promise you will utilize every piece of equipment we give you to stay safe.
Know your Wifi password (if you have Wifi) and ensure you know which Wifi is yours. This is for the camera and motion sensor.
Dress Comfortably and clear out one small area for training.
We promise we will get through this together. We at FYO will stay in touch with you every step of the way, even after we leave your home.