If you are planning to leave an abusive situation, these are tips that can help keep you and your family safe.

• Call 911 if you are in immediate danger.  Teach your children how to call 911 in case of an emergency.

• Talk to someone you trust and ask for help.

• Pack a bag that won't be missed.  Hide it or leave it with someone you trust.  Put these items in the bag:

-cash (including coins for phone calls) and checks

-clothes and personal items for you and your children

-medications

-house and car keys

-important phone numbers

-copies of important papers (driver's license or picture ID, birth certificates, passports, health insurance papers, house and car titles, rent receipts, marriage license, immunization records, lists of medications/allergies)

-special toys/books for your children

• Plan exactly where you will go and how you will get there.  Know where the nearest phones are outside of your house if you don't have a cell phone.  Remember, you might need to leave in the middle of the night.