* Decide where you are going to go.

* Talk to your children. They need to know which neighbor to run to in an emergency. If they are old enough, teach them the phone number to call and what to say if they are trapped in the house.

* Speak to people you trust. Let them know what is going on in case you need their help.

* Call a shelter or transition house and talk to the staff. Even if you don’t stay they can offer words of support.

* If possible, put aside an amount of money in cash.

* Open a separate bank account in your name. Put as much as you can into it. You may be able to get your bank statement sent to your work or even friend’s address.

* Find a way to get to your emergency safe place. It can be a friend neighbor, taxi, etc.

* Find someone to care for your pets.

* Find somewhere outside your home to keep your emergency bag and important documents.