The following is from a brochure from the local hospital. I did a translation of this to Spanish. I assume it would be O.K. with them to reproduce this material (it's something that they should should have publically available --otherwise it would be unethical to release this without their permission). I had an easily convertable file of this which I produced to make a translation of this material more easy for me. I removed most phone numbers since they are local to the West Central Minnesota area and of no likely relevance here (I'm not sure if Shelter House is local so I left it). Sorry about the formatting. I only spent some minimal time just now HTMLizing it.
If the original poster's situation isn't what it sounds like, perhaps posting this would be helpful to someone else.
Domestic
Violence
Safety
Plan
Everyone
has a
right
to be SAFE!
301
Becker Avenue SW
Willmar,
MN 56201
Rice
Memorial Hospital
Safety
During A Violent Incident
*When an argument begins, try to move to a room or area that has access to an exit. Avoid a bathroom, kitchen, or anywhere near weapons.
*Practice how to get out of your home. Identify which doors, windows, elevator, or stairwell would be best.
*Devise a signal or code work to use with your family, friends, and neighbors when you need to police.
*Identify a neighbor you can tell about the violence. Ask that neighbor to call the police if they hear a disturbance coming from your home or a prearranged signal.
*Decide where you will go if you have to leave home (even if you don't think you will need to). This should be a safe place from which you can call for further assistance.
*Use your own instincts and judgement. You have the right to protect yourself until you are out of danger.
*Always remember - YOU DON"T DESERVE TO BE HIT OR THREATENED!
Safety When Preparing To Leave
*Open a bank account in your own name to start to establish or increase you independence.
*Have a packed bag ready and keep it in a secret place that is easy to reach.
*Leave money, an extra set of keys, copies of important documents and extra clothes with someone you trust.
*Determine who would be able to let you stay with them or lend you some money.
*Keep the shelter phone number close at hand or, better yet, memorize it and keep some change or a calling card on you at all times for emergency phone calls.
*Review you safety plan as often as possible in order to plan to safest way to leave your batterer. Remember - Leaving your batterer can be very dangerous.
Safety
In Your Own Home
*Change the locks on your doors as soon as possible. Buy additional locks and safety devices to secure your windows.
*Inform neighbors and landlord that your partner no longer lives with you and that they should call the police if they see him/her near your home.
If
You Have Children
*Discuss a safety plan with your children when you are not with them.
*Inform your children's schools, daycare, etc. about who has permission to pick them up.
*If you are leaving your home to stay with a friend, relative or go into shelter, take your children with you.
Safety With A
Protection Order
*Keep your personal protection order with you at all times. (If you change your purse, that should be the first thing that goes in it or get multiple copies)
*Call the police if your partner breaks the PPO.
*Think of alternative ways to keep safe if the police do not respond right away.
*Inform family, friends, neighbors that you have a PPO in effect.
Safety On The Job And In Public
*Decide who at work you will inform of your situation. This should include office or building security (provide them with a picture of your batterer if possible).
*Arrange to have someone screen your telephone calls if possible.
*Devise a safety plan for when you leave work. Have someone escort you to your car, bus, or train. Use a variety of routes to go home if possible. Think about what you would do if something happened while going home (e.g., in your car, on the bus, etc.).
Your
Safety and Emotional Health
*If you are thinking of returning to a potentially abusive situation, discuss an alternative plan with someone you trust.
*If you have to communicate with your partner, determine the safest way to do so.
*Have positive thoughts about yourself and be assertive with others about your needs.
*Read books, articles, and poems to help you fee stronger.
*Decide who you can call to talk freely and openly to give you the support you need.
*Consider attending a domestic violence support group to gain support from others and learn more about yourself and the relationship.
If You Are A Teen In A Violent Relationship
*Decide which friend, teacher, relative or police officer you can tell.
*Contact the Shelter House to talk with someone about teen violence or about your situation.
For more information about your legal rights and
options,
contact an advocate at your local domestic
violence
program or one of the following numbers:
Area
Domestic Violence Programs
Shelter
House - 1-800-7924210
TDD
(320)235~962
Domestic
Abuse Program
For
Batterers 1-800-862-1453
Police
Emergency
911
Helpful
Items To Take when You Leave
Identification
Driver's
License
Children's birth certificates
Your birth certificate
Money
Lease, rental agreement, house deed
Bank Books
Checkbooks
Insurance papers
House and car keys
Medications
Address book
Photographs
Medical and immunization records for family members
Social Security Card
Welfare identification
School records
Work permits
Green card
Passports
Divorce papers
Protection orders
Jewelry
Children's small toys (for comforting them)
Other:
Contributors:
Brochure
developed by:
Rice
Memorial Hospital
Brochure
provided by:
Rice
Memorial Hospital
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