A safe house is a location where people may go to avoid persecution of their activities by authorities. It is also a phrase used by intelligence agencies and police forces as meaning a secured location, suitable for hiding witnesses agents or other persons perceived as being in danger. Many neighborhoods have a location to which children are instructed to go when they feel that they are in danger as well, a place where a trusted adult or family has agreed to provide a safe haven.

The common theme of each of these meanings is that of a safe place or sanctuary from harm.

Safe houses were an integral part of the Underground railroad, a network of safe locations which were used to assist slaves to escape to freedom in the United States.

Many religious institutions will allow one to obtain sanctuary within their place of worship, and some governments respect and do not violate such sanctuary.