IF LIVING WITH THE ABUSER
If you are residing with someone whom you do not feel safe with, consider the following recommendations. Prepare a bag with some or all of the following items:

• Identifications such as driver license, passports, I.D. cards.
• Birth certificates for yourself and your children.
• Money, bankbooks, checkbooks, credit cards, ATM cards, mortgage payment book.
• School records
• Legal documents, including divorce and custody decrees.
• Insurance papers, car title, registration
• Medical and immunization records.
• Copies of lease, rental agreement, and/or property deeds.
• Extra keys for house, car, office, and safety deposit box.
• Medications, glasses, hearing aids, etc.
• Personal items such as address book, pictures, jewelry, and items of sentimental value to you and your children.

Consider the following recommendations for your safety:

1. If you become engaged in an argument, try not to seclude yourself in an area with no exit or where there is access to potential weapons (for example the bathroom or kitchen).

2. Be aware of your surroundings, specially the location of the nearest exit or telephone.

3. If there are weapons in the home, inform law enforcement.

4. Practice an emergency exit plan. Visualize your escape route. Familiarize yourself with the safest and fastest ways to exit your home.

5. Inform a neighbor of the potential for violence. Ask him or her to call the police if they hear a disturbance coming from your home.

6. Along with your children and other close family or friends, implement a code word that signifies the need for help.

7. Plan for an alternate living situation, even if you don't need it at the present time.

8. If the situation becomes dangerous, consider an action that may calm the situation. This may give you time to assess what to do next.

IN PUBLIC
When in public, safety should always be a priority. The following guidelines are suggested:
1. Decide whom you will inform about the potential danger. This may include your peers at school, work colleagues, and or building security. Provide a picture of the abuser if possible.

2. Have someone escort you to your car or means of public transportation. Park your vehicle in a lit and visible area. Look inside the car before opening the door, and lock the car door immediately after you are inside.

3. When possible, use a variety of routes to the places that you often frequent.

4. Keep a cell phone with you at all times. In the event of an altercation, call 911. (Cell phones will access 911, even if there is not a current service plan)

5. Be aware of cell phones purchased by your abuser, as they may have a GPS tracking device. Current cell phones with such capacity include Nextel. If you suspect your perpetrator is tracking your whereabouts, turn off your cell phone and visit the nearest police station for examination of the phone.