Staying Safe

If you are in immediate danger, you should call 911. If you are not in immediate danger but if you feel that your safety is at risk, you should contact a professional, such as those at the Illinois Domestic Violence Hotline to create a safety plan for your specific situation and needs.

Information and Helpful Tips

• Think about people and organizations who will support you; share information about your situation with people you trust.
• Think about and practice how you would get out of the house safely.
• Prepare a bag with extra clothes and key documents for you and/or your children.
• Make copies of key documents and your keys, and leave them with a trusted friend.
• Decide on a code word to use with children or your friends to let them know you are in danger and that they should call 911.
• If you feel like you are in imminent danger, move to a room with an exit and stay away from enclosed spaces with possible weapons, such as the kitchen.
• Leave and go to a neighbor, friend, or relative’s house, if possible.
• Call 9-1-1 and the police can transport you to a hospital or safe place.
• Keep any evidence of abuse, such as: photos of bruises or cuts, ripped clothing, or damaged property; threatening voicemails, texts, or emails; and medical or police records in a safe place and backed up electronically or extra copies with an individual you trust.