As we celebrate the month of February, which many associate with Love, the Saratoga Springs Police Department wants to share some quick relationship safety tips with you: 

Tip 1: As you prepare for any date, whether it is your first or thirty-first. Your safety is our utmost concern. 

• If you feel you or anyone else’s life is in danger please call 911. 
• We also have a victim service coordinator who is here to help you. She can be reached at (801) 766-6503 x133. 
• We are giving away free safety key chains on a first come first serve basis to those who stop by our office. 

Tip 2: In any relationship, not just romantic ones, boundaries that are understood by both individuals are key to a respectful and healthy relationship. Having open conversations about your boundaries is important. As well as being respectful that these boundaries may evolve as the relationship does.

Tip 3: You wouldn’t want to receive these conversation hearts and your Valentine shouldn’t treat you these ways either. If you are in an abusive relationship call for help at 801-798-5600 or 800-897-5465.

 Tip 4: All relationships go through many different phases and disagreements happen. Abusive relationships are based on being in control. Understand the following warning signs for abusive relationships so you can watch out for them.

Signs of an abusive relationship:

• Possessiveness or controlling behavior such as checking your phone, email or social media accounts without your permission.
• Putting you down frequently, especially in front of others.
• Isolating you from friends or family (physically, financially or emotionally).
• Pressuring you or forcing you to do anything against your will, including intimate relations. 

 Tip 5: If you feel like you are in an abusive relationship it is important to create a safety plan for yourself and your kids. You can pack a bag with some important items using this list found on the Saratoga Springs Police Department Website- Safety Planning Checklist
Safety Planning Checklist

More information can be found on the Safety planning page at Safety Planning