If you are preparing to leave an abusive/dangerous situation, or even thinking about leaving, develop a safety plan:

• Have a code word for family, friends, and/or neighbors to let them know if you need help
• Be packed: prepare a bag with the essentials, so you can leave at a moment's notice if necessary
• Practice emergency exits from your home - know all the ways to escape
• Open a savings account in your own name to start to establish, or increase, your financial independence
• Pick a place you could go to stay if you needed to: either someone you trust, or a shelter, such as the Diane Peppler Resource Center
• Leave some money, extra keys, copies of important papers, and extra clothing with someone you trust
• Keep the shelter phone number close: (906) 635-0566 or 1-800-882-1515. Make sure you keep change for a payphone, or a calling card with you at all times

Things to bring with you when you leave (if possible)

• Birth Certificate (for yourself, and your children)
• Marriage Certificate
• Social Security Number
• Driver's license
• Other important papers
• Essential clothing
• Money (if possible)
• Keys
• A favorite toy, or special blanket for your kids
• Necessary medicine

A note about Internet Security:

Most Internet browsers (Internet Explorer, Firefox, Safari, etc) keep track of which websites have been visited using a certain computer. While you can clear this history, it may not be 100% removed. If you have any questions about whether or not your computer usage may be monitored, please use a safer computer, such as a public computer at a library or internet cafe. If you are in an emergency situation, call 1-906-635-0566 or 1-800-882-1515 for help from the DPRC, or 911.

A note about Phone Security:

If you have called the DPRC, please consider making another phone call to a "safe" number immediately following your call here. This prevents anyone from hitting redial, and finding out you have called the DPRC.