• Think of a safe place to go if an argument occurs
• Avoid rooms with no exits (bathrooms), or rooms with weapons (kitchen)
• Think about and make a list of safe people to contact
• Identify someone to call to get a safe ride home
• If you are feeling unsafe at home, invite a friend to come over
• Keep change with you at all times
• Memorize all important numbers
• Establish a "code word" so family, friends, teachers or co-workers can call for help.
• Think about what you will say to your partner if he\she becomes violent
• Consider filing a restraining order

         If you have already left the relationship?

• Change your phone number and screen your phone calls
• Ask the phone company to trace calls for a stalking report
• 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 and ask them for help with your plan
• Call a shelter for battered women
• If you leave the relationship or are thinking of leaving, take important papers and documents with you