Whether you are currently with your abuser or not, a safety plan can reduce your risk of being harmed. The better you plan for your departure, the safer you will be.

Call 911 if you are in danger or hurt.

• Arrange a signal with a neighbor to call police if needed.
  
• If you have children and your children are old enough, arrange a secret signal with them to let them know when to run to neighbors or call police.
  
• Memorize the number of the NYAWC's 24-hour multi-lingual toll-free hotline:
  1-888-888-7702
  
• Memorize the number and location of your local police precinct.
  
• Hide some money. You may need it later on for a phone call, taxi, food, etc.
  
• Hide a spare car key and house key.
  
• Gather your paperwork. Collect passports, green cards, Social Security cards, birth certificates, marriage certificate, children's immunization records, driver's license, car registration, bank accounts, order of protection, custody papers, documentation of abuse (photos of injuries, medical records) and other important documents.
  
• If possible, know your abuser's Social Security number, date and place of birth, etc. You may need this information later on.
  
• If you have an order of protection, carry a copy with you at all times.
  
• If you have custody papers, carry a copy with you at all times.
  
• Keep a bag packed and well hidden with basic necessities for you and your children.
  
• If you have a baby, don't forget to pack diapers and formula.
  
• If you leave and have an older child, try to take something the child is attached to such as a favorite doll.
  
• If you can, document your abuse. Take photos of injuries, get copies of medical records, write down each incident.
  
• Consider calling NYAWC's counselor even if you are not ready to leave. Our counselors can give you a lot of important information and be there for you to listen and assist you whenever you need help.