WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE BATTERED

  Call 9-1-1 as soon as possible.

• Get out quickly and safely if you can.
• If you know an argument is coming, try going into a room or other area    that has access or an exit.  Do not use the bathroom, kitchen, garage, nor      anywhere there may be weapons.
• Try to keep a phone with you at all times. 
• If weapons are in the home, inform law enforcement.
• Have a bag packed and ready with any medications, I.D., friends phone numbers, local shelter phone (Casa 530-674-5400), at least one change of clothing for yourself and your children.  If your child has a favorite blanket or toy try to bring that as well. 
•  If possible, put some money, an extra set of keys, birth certificates, and other papers in the bag.  If you have a friend you trust ask if you can leave the bag with that person.
• Ask a neighbor to call law enforcement if they hear a disturbance coming from your home.       
  
• Plan where you will go if you have to leave in a hurry.
• Use your judgment.  If the situation is dangerous consider what you can do to calm things.  Your first priority is to protect your children and yourself
• REMEMBER-LEAVING CAN BE THE MOST DANGEROUS TIME
• If your batterer leaves the home change the locks as soon as possible.If you have young children or other dependents living with you, discuss a safety plan.  
• If you have a Restraining Order leave one in your glove compartment, one with each school, and one with your daycare.  Make sure the school/daycare know who is allowed to pick up.Inform your neighbor that
• Inform your abuser no longer lives with you and if they see him they should call 9-1-1.   

 If you need assistance, shelter, information or a helping hand call Casa de Esperanza.  Our crisis number is 530-674-2040.  It is available 24-hours a day.  If you are not sure where the nearest shelter is you can call the National Domestic Violence Hot line, also available 24 hours at 1-800-799-7233.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________                                                                         WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE THE VICTIM OF RAPE                       "Heart of Healing "                                                                                                                                                                                      © 2004 Rita Loyd      

• Get to a safe place
• Call a family member or friend that you trust.
• Do not bathe, douche, change or destroy clothes.  Do not straighten up the area     of the attack. 
•                                      THIS IS IMPORTANT!
  
• Write down every detail you can remember about the attack.
• If you plan to report the attack CALL 9-1-1 AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.  They are there to help you.  They   will call a sexual assault advocate to be there with you.                                                                     
• Go to the nearest hospital.  The police will take you if that is what you want or need.                                             
• At the hospital you will receive an examination which is similar to a pelvic exam as well treatment for any possible injuries.
• Anyone who have been raped have many different reactions, such as:  shock, guilt, anger, fear, depression, disbelief...     

If you have been raped call Casa de Esperanza.  We can help.  You will receive the information and support you need.  Our crisis number, 674-2040, is available 24-hours a day.  If you  are not sure where the closest shelter is you can call the National Sexual Violence Resource Center available 24 hours at  1-877-739-3895.