If you believe you are in immediate danger, call 911.

• Choose a safe place to go if you leave your home.
• Practice how to get out of your home safely by identifying which escape route is best.
• Have a packed bag ready and keep it at the home of a close relative or friend.
• Identify one or more neighbors who you can ask to call the police if they hear a disturbance coming from your home.
• Devise a code word or signal to use with your children, family, friends and neighbors when you need the police.
• If you believe an argument or incident is going to occur, leave if possible. If not, try to move to a room where you have access to an exit and/or a phone. Stay away from any room without an outside door or window or a room with items that could be used as weapons such as a kitchen or garage.
• Use your own instincts and judgment. If the situation is very dangerous, do whatever is necessary to be safe. This may mean giving the abuser what he/she wants to calm him/her down.
• If possible, keep your cell phone with you at all times.