Safety planning should be a first step to 
being in or leaving a violent home.  
When leaving your partner it is important to prepare certain items you will need. You may prepare copies and keep them with a friend or family member, or keep them in one location so that if you have to leave quickly, they will be all together. 

In some states, even if you have never worked, you can legally take ½ the funds in the checking and savings accounts. If you don’t take any money from the accounts, your partner can take out all the money and close the accounts and you may not get your share until the court rules on it, if ever.
 
This is a list of important items. The most critical items have an asterisk:
   *Identification card, Driver's License and registration
   *Your birth certificate and children’s if any
   *Social Security Card
   *School and vaccination records
   *Money
   *Checkbook and ATM and credit cards
   *Keys to house, car, office
   *Medications if any
   Government assistance (FIA/WIC/DHS Paperwork), Work Permits, Green card
   Passport(s)
   Divorce paperwork
   Medical records – for all family members
   Lease/rental agreement, house deed, mortgage payment book
   Bank Book
   Insurance papers
   Small saleable objects
   Address book
   Pictures, Personal Jewelry
   Children’s favorite toys and/or blankets
   Items of special sentimental value
  • Practice how to get out safely. Choose the doors, windows, elevators, stairwells or fire escapes to leave quickly.
  • Keep your purse and car keys easily accessible to leave.
  • Tell a neighbor about the violence and ask them to call the police if they hear suspicious noises coming from your house or apartment.
  • Teach your children how to use the phone to contact the police and fire department.
  • Use a code with your children or friends so they will know to call the police.
  • Avoid arguments in the bathroom, garage, kitchen, near potential weapons or in rooms without access to an outside door.
  • Use your judgment and intuition. Try to calm the abuser to protect yourself until you are out of danger.
Tips to help you prepare. 
Domestic Abuse Survivors Support Services
(269) 673-8700 or 
888-411-7837 (24/7)