NORC Library

UPDATED Tip Sheet: Personal Safety Considerations During Visits

April 30th, 2026

This tip sheet emphasizes that representatives should prioritize personal safety and risk awareness when visiting facilities by preparing in advance, staying alert during visits, and following up afterward. Before a visit, representatives are encouraged to plan ahead by informing others of their whereabouts and considering potential risks; during the visit, they should remain aware of surroundings, trust their instincts, maintain professional boundaries, and avoid unsafe situations; and after the visit, they should document concerns and report any safety issues.

The tip sheet highlights that while representatives advocate for residents, they must also take practical precautions and follow program policies to protect their own well-being and minimize risk in potentially unpredictable environments.

Read the Tips Sheet: Personal Safety Considerations During Visits