the situation. They may provide temporary shelter for witnesses, informants, undercover agents, political dissidents, refugees, or people escaping abuse or persecution. In espionage and military contexts, safe houses may be used for secret meetings, hiding personnel, storing equipment, or planning operations. In criminal contexts, the term can also refer to a location used to hide fugitives, stolen goods, or illegal activity.

The security of a safe house often depends on secrecy, limited access, and its ability to blend into the surrounding