Emergency Action

Would you know what to do if your husband or boyfriend lost control? How would you protect yourself and your children if he started beating you or threatening you? Don't wait for the blow-up to happen to decide what to do. You must be able to act quickly when the time comes. Have an emergency plan ready.

The Escape Route

Know where to go and how to get there safely. Places you might consider include:

• the home of a friend, neighbor, or relative
• a boarding house, hotel, or motel
• an emergency shelter for women

If you have children, you may have to make plans for them, too. You have every right to take them at a time like this. If you have questions about custody or their needs, talk to a lawyer or a counsellor. Look in the directory of this book under Legal Matters and Counselling.