 If you can't avoid an argument, try to have it in a safe area that has access to an exit. Avoid arguments in a bathroom, kitchen, or anywhere near weapons, and try to redirect your position into a safe area with an escape, if you find yourself in an area with no escape routes.
- Explore your surroundings and decide how you can get out of your home safely. Determine which doors, windows, elevators, or stairways would be best.
- Try to find which neighbor you can tell about any violent situations you may find yourself in and ask that they call the police if they hear a disturbance coming from your home.
- Create a code word to use with your children, family, friends, and neighbors to let them know when you need the police.
- Devise a plan and decide where you will go if you need to leave home, whether it be for a day or so, or an indefinite period of time (even if you don't think you will need to do so). Where will you go if you have to leave? Be sure it is somewhere you will be safe. You don't want the abuser to follow you or get where you are going before you do. If you are planning to stay with family, you may want to consider going to a friend or acquaintance first and have your family member meet you there.
- Use your own instincts and judgment. If the situation is very dangerous, consider giving the abuser what he or she wants to calm him/her down. You have the right to protect yourself until you are out of danger. Please remember, you have a choice to be where you are...your children don't. If the situation calls for getting your children out, then your obligation is to protect your children first.
- Always remember: **
You don't deserve to be hit or threatened
** |
