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Plan if you can. Otherwise, run like mad.

1. Establish a place with a trusted person to keep necessary items. If that isn't possible, find a hiding place or open a safe deposit box.

2. It is important to open a post office box. Make address changes for important mail or anything you may not want your partner to know about.

3. Unless you are planning to leave in the very near future, you may want to open a savings account, in your name, to begin saving money for yourself. Regardless you should try to have enough cash in your pocket or with a friend to take care of your immediate needs. Sometimes you can't get escape money, but do your best.

4. If you are able, get a credit card in you name. It could come in handy for an emergency.

5. Clothing for you and your children should be available somewhere.

6. Make a set of all your necessary keys and keep them stashed outside your home where you will have quick access to them. If you are planning to take a car, keep a key on you or hidden where you can get it quickly and safely.

7. Make copies of all important documents like birth certificates, titles to vehicles, mortgage papers, checking and savings accounts, financial records, insurance or anything else you might want or need. Making a list of addresses and phone numbers is helpful too.

8. If you have treasures and other valuables you don't want to leave behind, take them to a storage unit or to a friend's to keep for you. Don't be obvious by taking items that will be noticed. The idea is to be wise and safe. Your life is far more important than any material goods.

9. Locate women's shelters and speak with someone about available help. If you have to get away quickly, you'll know what to do and where to go. It's very nice to have support especially if you've been isolated and away from your family and friends.

10. This list is a start. Think of what else you might need for yourself and your children. Unless your partner is out of town and you can take what you want safely, I suggest not worrying about all the stuff you might be leaving behind. You're in a dangerous, hostage situation and your life is far more important than what is replaceable.

Be Prepared and more importantly Be Safe!

Home Plan If You Can About Dr. MacKay Watch Movie: Lifelines Blog Your Self-Help Website Hotflash Queen Website Contact Information: Dr. Karen MacKay 3300 NW 185th, 200 Portland, Oregon 97229 Send an email

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