Safety After You Have
Left The Relationship
Once you no longer live with the batterer, here are some things you can do to enhance your and your children’s safety.
1. Change the locks -if you’re still in your home and the batterer is the one who has left.
2. Install as many security features as possible in your home. These might include metal doors and gates, security alarm system, smoke detectors and outside lights.
3. Inform neighbors that your former partner is not welcome on the premises. Ask them to call the police if they see that person loitering about your property or watching your home.
4. Make sure the people who care for your children are very clear about who does and who does not have permission to pick up your children.
5. Obtain a restraining order. Keep it near you at all times, and make sure friends and neighbors have copies to show the police.
6. Let your co-workers know about your situation -if your former partner is likely to come to your work place to bother you. Ask them to warn you if they observe that person around.
7. Avoid the stores, banks, and businesses you used when you were living with the batterer.
8. Get counseling. Attend workshops. Join support groups. Do whatever it takes to form a supportive network that will be there when you need it
CONTENTS