Prevention and Referral Services

Office of Domestic Violence
Program Office


If you are in an abusive relationship, be prepared to get away. Here are few suggestions to properly prepare yourself:

  • Keep with someone you trust; a spare set of keys, a set of clothes, important papers, prescriptions and some money.
  • Keep any evidence of physical abuse (ripped clothes, photo of bruises and injuries, etc.). Plan the safest time to get away.
  • Know where you can go for help. Tell someone what is happening to you. Have the phone numbers of friends, relatives and domestic violence shelters with you.
  • Call the police if you are in danger and need help.
  • If you are injured, go to the hospital emergency room or doctor and report what happened to you. Ask that they document your visit.
  • Plan with your children and identify a safe place for them; a room with a lock or a neighbor's house where they can go for help. Reassure them their job is to stay safe, not protect you.
  • Arrange a signal with a neighbor, i.e., if the porch light is on, call the police.