*SAFETY PLANNING TIPS THAT CAN SAVE YOUR LIFE* As stated by the National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1. Identify safe areas in your residence with pathways to exit, away from any weapons. If arguments occur, try to move to those areas before they escalate. 2. If safe, have a phone accessible at all times and know what numbers to call for help, including friends or family, The Hotline at 800.799.SAFE (7233), and your local shelter. Know where the nearest public phone is located. 3. Let trusted friends and neighbors know about your situation and develop a plan and visual signal for when you might need their help. Give them clear instructions on who you do or do not want them to contact in moments of crisis, including law enforcement. 4. Create reasons for leaving the house at different times of the day or night. Ex. multiple trips to the grocery store, spending time with friends, staying at work longer, find unnecessary errands to complete. 5. Plan for what to do if your partner finds out about your plan. 6. Be mindful of how clothing/jewelry could be used to physically harm you. For example, if your partner has put their hands around your neck, avoid wearing scarves or jewelry that can be used to harm you. 7. Back your car into your driveway when you park at home and keep it fueled. If possible, keep the driver’s door unlocked with the rest of the doors locked to allow for quick access to the vehicle. 8. If violence is unavoidable, make yourself as physically small as possible. Move to a corner and curl into a ball with your face protected and arms around each side of your head, fingers entwined." *Safety Planning Guide is linked here: https://www.thehotline.org/resources/safety-planning-while-living-with-an-abusive-partner/ #endtheviolence #knowyoursurroundings #escape #msc4vp (fb)

Honoring all those who have served this Memorial Day. 🇺🇸 #usa #memorialday #honor #ThankYouForYourService (fb)