If you are in or are planning to leave a violent relationship, it is important to make a safety plan first. You should also talk to someone you trust about your plan. If you do not have friends or family you can turn to, you always can call the
Philadelphia Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-866-SAFE-014
to talk to one of the crisis intervention counselors.
Create a Safety Plan:
- 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.
