Remove weapons from the home.

Plan to escape during a calm "honeymoon" period; not during or right after a violent incident.

Keep extra money and credit cards in a safe place.

Keep a suitcase packed with the necessities, important papers, and treasured irreplaceable items (i.e., photos), and store it at a friend's home.

If possible put a phone in the bathroom.

Make an extra set of keys to the house and car(s) and keep them in a safe place.

Confide in a neighbor, friend and relative to be available for at least temporary assistance at any time (a place to flee to). If you have no other choices, call a domestic violence shelter in your area.

If appropriate, talk to children about the possibility of fleeing (consider the age of the children, ability to keep secret).

Teach children to dial 911 responsibly (when you shout "police", for example).

Identify the early warning signs of possible violence so that you can prepare to escape. Please keep in mind that this preparation for escape will take some long - term planning.