STEP 4

Seek a protection or restraining order in court. Make extra copies of the order and keep them in safe places.
Establish a “neighborhood watch” by informing neighbors and landlord that your partner no longer lives with you and that they should call the police if they see the perpetrator near your home.
Show neighbors a picture of the batterer and/or the batterer's vehicle.
If possible, arrange to have a relative or friend call your house every day at an appointed time just to check in with you.
If possible, trade cars with a friend or relative so a batterer cannot locate your vehicle.
You should know that motor vehicle records, including addresses, may be available to the public.
Switch to a private or unlisted telephone number
Be very cautious about giving out a new address. Use a Post Office box whenever possible. Batterers have located victims through friends, relatives, co-workers, court or social services documents, the post office, and private investigators.
Block your outgoing telephone calls (*67). Use an answering machine or caller ID for incoming calls from the batterer for evidence of harassment or protection order violations.
Alter routines - change transportation routes or timing (including picking up children from school) so that the batterer cannot locate you.
Discuss a Safety Plan with your children for when you are not with them.
Inform your children's school, day care, etc., about who has permission to pick up your children.
Change the locks on your doors.
Replace wooden doors with metal doors.
Install a security system.
Add additional locks, window bars, and use a strong wooden rod or dowel to secure doors and windows.
Purchase rope ladders to be used for escape from second floor windows or access points.
Install outdoor lighting and motion sensors.
Keep Safety Planning materials well hidden and secret from your abuser.