The SAFE animated series by the Montana Department of Justice educates viewers about Sexual Assault Forensic Exams. Because the series targets a broad audience, the first video focuses on the loved ones of survivors. It offers guidance on how to support someone through their healing journey. The second and third animations speak directly to survivors, explaining how a SAFE works and why they might consider one.

The first and most important step in creating this series was identifying the right imagery to represent a complex and sensitive topic with care. To ensure this, the team consulted a trauma expert. By understanding common fears and triggers among survivors, potentially harmful visuals were avoided in favor of trauma-informed representations. The chosen visual direction leaned on symbolic and metaphorical images, paired with soft pastel colors.

A key goal of the series was to make survivors feel seen, respected, and treated with care. Although the videos acknowledge dark and difficult emotions, the visuals remain gentle and non-threatening. This approach aims to promote a sense of safety for the viewer.

The survivor’s right to make choices and refuse consent sits at the heart of the series. Every section about medical exams, police reports, or legal proceedings centers on this principle. Visual elements throughout the series reinforce the customizable, step-by-step nature of the SAFE process.