Domestic Violence Prevention, Intervention, and Healing

Need Help:  National Domestic Violence Hotline
1-800-799-7233  1-800-787-3224 (TTY) or 9-1-1


Creating a Safety Plan

 If you are still in the relationship:

  • Think of a safe place to go if an argument occurs - avoid rooms with no exits (bathroom), or rooms with weapons (kitchen).

  • Think about and make a list of safe people to contact.

  • Keep change with you at all times.

  • Memorize all important numbers.

  • Establish a "code word" or "sign" so that family, friends, teachers or co-workers know when to call for help.

  • Think about what you will say to your partner if he\she becomes violent.

  • Before leaving purchase a cheap phone and leave your smart phone behind. (See our blog) 

  • Before you leave call Eagle's Wings for assistance. Remember that this is the most dangerous time for you. You must exit with help.


If you have left the relationship:

  • It is crucial that you do not take your smart phones with you, as you can be tracked through a phone tracker app. Change your phone number immediately screen calls.
  • Save and document all contacts, messages, injuries or other incidents involving the batterer.
  • Change locks, if the batterer has a key.
  • Avoid staying alone.
  • Plan how to get away if confronted by an abusive partner.
  • If you have to meet your partner, do it in a public place.
  • Vary your routine.
  • Notify school and work contacts.
  • Call a shelter for battered women.


If you leave the relationship or are thinking of leaving, you should take important papers and documents with you to enable you to apply for benefits or take legal action.

Important papers you should take include social security cards and birth certificates for you and your children, your marriage license, leases or deeds in your name or both yours and your partner's names, your checkbook, your charge cards, bank statements and charge account statements, insurance policies, proof of income for you and your spouse (pay stubs or W-2's), and any documentation of past incidents of abuse (photos, police reports, medical records, etc.)


(Information provided by the National Coalition for Domestic Violence http://www.ncadv.org/protectyourself)