If an argument seems unavoidable, try to have it in a room or area where there is an exit. Avoid the bathroom and the kitchen or anywhere near weapons.

• Practice how to get out of your home safely. Identify which doors, windows, or stairs would be the best. Visualize your escape route.
• If possible, pack a suitcase and keep it in a secret but handy place, or at a friend’s house so you can leave quickly.
• Ask neighbors to call the police if they hear a disturbance coming from your home.
• Make up a code word you can use to signal your children, family, friends, or neighbors that you need the police.
• Make a plan for where you will go if you have to leave home. Do this even though you don’t think that you’ll ever need to leave home.
• Teach your children how to use the telephone to dial 911.