A recent post addressed building a safety check-in system with neighbors. It's something I have enjoyed for several years now. In times of emergencies like when the building's electricity goes down or other community concerns, the residents have each other's back and we check in. It definitely fosters a strong sense of personal security.

Is that something you have?  If not with neighbors, what about with your nearby friends? The system could be simple texts or phone calls—even email messages. Don't overthink the process, the key is setting up a strategy that works for everyone participating. 

How to create safety-check in calls with trusted friends and peers 

1. One or two friends must take the lead to initiate. But the group must agree that the responsibilities not fall consistently on the same individuals. It serves the group when it's a collaborative process. 
2. Choose a regular time and day for a check in: Agree on a time and day that works for each person to check-in. This could be on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday, weekly or bi-weekly, depending on everyone's schedules.
3. Decide on the platform: Choose a platform that everyone is comfortable using, such as Zoom, Skype, Google Meet, the Phone, or Text Message. Mix it up. Perhaps daily check ins can be done via texts and video calls scheduled once monthly.
4. Create a plan: Discuss what topics to cover during the call. Consider discussing how everyone is feeling, any challenges they may be facing, and any updates on their personal and professional lives. 
5. Set expectations: Discuss the expectations, including the length of time spent together, confidentiality, and any ground rules.
6. Share emergency contacts: Share emergency contacts with each other, including any relevant medical or personal information that may be needed in an emergency. 
7. Be consistent: Stick to the schedule and keep the check-in calls consistent to ensure everyone stays connected and supported.
8. Discuss various topics to address. As each member becomes comfortable, over time, this network can be a go-to resource for health care proxy, emergency contact, sharing rides, running errands, and medical appointments. 
9. Overtime, the group can expand the responsibilities and other topics to cover. 
10. Be patient with each person involved. It takes time to build deep connections and trust that's shared across the network. 

Remember, safety check-in calls and systems should be a positive experience and an opportunity to connect with friends, support each other, and stay informed about each other's well-being.

If you wonder how strong your social connections and support network are, the Life Plan Assessment will tell you exactly where one or both fall short.  Take it and learn the aspects that make both strong and reliable. 

Here's to strong support right where you live! 

Carol Marak