Safety Measures

Browse important safety measures for while in a relationship and after a relationship.

In Relationship

Safety measures while in the relationship:

  • Have important phone numbers memorized.
  • If children are older discuss the plan with them.
  • If children are younger teach them to dial 911.
  • Keep a pre-paid phone card or a charged cell phone with you at all times.
  • If you can, open your own bank account.
  • Stay in touch with friends; get to know your neighbors. Resist the temptation to cut yourself off from people.
  • Rehearse your escape plan until you know it by heart.
  • Leave a set a car keys, extra money, a change of clothes and copies of important documents in a safe place or with a trusted friend.

Important Documents

Examples of important papers:

  • Your and your children's birth certificate.
  • Your social security card.
  • Your children's school and medical records.
  • Bank Book
  • Welfare ID
  • Passports
  • Lease agreement or mortgage
  • Insurance papers
  • Extra prescription medication
  • Evidence of abuse (photos, journals, police reports)

After Relationship

Safety measures after the relationship:

  • If you're still in the home, change the locks.
  • Install as many security devices as you can afford.
  • Metal exterior doors, gates, security alarm, motion lights, motion detectors, smoke alarms.
  • Inform neighbors of your former partner. He is not welcome on the property.
  • Mace sure daycare providers are aware of the situation. Let them know who is and is not to have contact.
  • Obtain a protective order. Keep a copy with you at all times. Give friends and neighbors a copy.
  • Let co-workers know.
  • Avoid places the abuser goes.
  • Get counseling.