No one deserves to be beaten or hurt at home. The violence is not your fault. You did not make it happen. You are not alone. You have choices. There are people to help and support you. You have legal choices, too, because domestic violence is a crime. If you or your children are involved in a relationship in which you are being hurt and abused, review the safety tips below.

Source: The Philadelphia Family Violence Working Group c/o Physicians for Social Responsibility 215-765-8703

• If you are planning to leave, choose the safest time to get away. Keep spare keys, a set of clothes, important papers, prescriptions and money in a safe place (or with someone you trust) in case you leave.
• When being treated for injuries, ask medical personnel to document your visit. Keep any evidence of physical abuse (ripped clothing, photos of bruises and injuries, etc.).
• Know where you can go for help. Tell someone what is happening to you. Have phone numbers of friends, relatives and domestic violence programs with you.
• Plan with your children and identify a safe place for them: a room with a lock or a neighbor’s house where they can go for help. Reassure them their job is to stay safe, not to protect you.
• Call the police (or arrange a signal with a neighbor to call the police) if you are in danger and need help.
• Hotlines are always available to you during a crisis; however, it’s helpful to try and contact a domestic violence hotline about laws, shelter and other resources available to you before you have to use them.