What elements should safety planning include when a risk is identified?

• A. Do nothing until the client asks.
• B. Steps to ensure safety, crisis resources, and following protocol.
• C. Rely on client self-management alone.
• D. Remove all supervision.

Answer: (B)

When a risk is identified, safety planning is about creating a concrete, actions-based plan to protect the client from harm. The best approach includes three key components: clear steps to ensure safety, access to crisis resources, and adherence to established protocols.

Clear steps to ensure safety means outlining specific actions that will be taken to reduce risk now and in the near future. This might involve identifying warning signs, agreeing on coping strategies, detailing who will check in with the client, and specifying what to do if danger escalates. It turns concern into a practical plan rather than leaving it vague.

Access to crisis resources means having ready-to-use contacts and supports—such as crisis hotlines, emergency services, trusted people the client can reach, and the exact steps to access these resources quickly. This ensures immediate support is available when needed.

Following protocol means using the organization's guidelines for safety planning, including documentation, escalation procedures, and roles and responsibilities. It ensures the plan is consistent, legally and ethically sound, and that everyone involved knows how to act.

Options that suggest doing nothing, relying only on the client to self-manage, or removing supervision do not provide the structured, proactive protection that risk requires. Those approaches leave gaps in support, accountability, and timely intervention.