We encourage people in unhealthy relationships to contact us for help, but there are some things you can do if you’re not ready to take that step just yet:

• Identify a safe place to go in case you ever feel that you need to escape
• Have some pocket money on you at all times
• Document any injuries suffered from violence

It’s also a good idea to keep the following items in a safe place:

• Spare set of car and/or house keys
• At least one set of clothes (for yourself and your children)
• Important documents (birth certificate, car insurance/title, medical records)
• Medications and other necessary items for your children

Children may not fully comprehend what is happening around them or to them. Help them learn a few coping skills, and provide instructions in case of emergency.

• Teach your children ways they can self-soothe when they feel sad, angry or scared such as:
  • Imagining a magical place of their own or thinking of their favorite place
  • Drawing, playing music, or doing something creative to express their feelings
  • Holding an item that comforts them such as a stuffed animal
  • Remembering an event or person that made them feel happy
  • Taking slow, deep breaths
• Identify a safe space for them at home or with a trusted neighbor in case of a violent situation.
• Determine what devices they can access at home and who to contact in case of emergency such as memorizing a trusted adult’s phone number and calling 911.
• Set up a secret codeword or sign with your child when it is time to leave and/or call for help.