Survival Tips for Victims of Domestic Violence

Know a safe place that you can go - family, friend, Family Services Shelter (723-8125).
Have an escape plan for yourself and your children and teach it to your children.
Go to a reputable lawyer, legal aid center or family doctor and be honest about your situation, ask for advice and help. Most will not charge for a telephone call or conference.
Establish credit in your own name if possible.
Keep the following items where your partner cannot find them, (maybe at a friend's house):
- $50 or more in cash
- Change for telephone calls
- Extra clothing for you and your children, keep them in something that is not obvious such as a trash bag.
- Important papers (or copies) such as: bank account numbers, check book or check stubs, social security numbers, insurance policies, marriage license, divorce/custody papers, birth certificates, Medicaid cards, Food Stamp cards and important phone numbers of friends and relatives who may be able to help.
- Special medications/prescriptions for you and your children.
- Extra keys to the house and car.
- Hide weapons or potentially violent objects.