• Know where you can get help. Keep a list of important phone numbers (police, domestic violence hotline, hospital).
• Plan with your children. Identify a safe place for them (room with a lock, neighbor’s house). Let them know that their job is to stay safe; not to protect you.
• Arrange a signal with a neighbor for when you need help.
• Prepare an emergency kit that you can get to quickly. (You may want to keep it at a trusted friend’s/neighbor’s house.)

Include:

• Extra set of car and house keys
• Money, food stamps, checkbook, credit card(s), pay stubs
• Birth certificates and other ID for you and your children
• Driver’s license or other photo identification
• Social security card or green card/work permit
• Health insurance cards, medications for you and your children
• Deed or lease to your house or apartment
• Any court papers or orders
• Change of clothes for you and your children
• Plan the safest time to get away. Know how you will leave and which doors or windows you will use.