When your Abuser has been Removed from your Home

Once an abuser is out of your home, take these extra steps to protect yourself from possible future interaction.

Change the locks on your doors and windows as soon as possible!
Replace wooden doors with steel doors.
Install security systems if possible. Purchase additional locks, window bars, poles to wedge against doors.
If you have a second floor, make sure you have an escape route in case you are trapped upstairs i.e. rope, ladder etc.
Install smoke detectors and keep fire extinguishers on every floor, you never know what your abuser might do to flush you out
Install extra outside lighting, to include motion-activated lighting.
Teach your children their name, address, phone number, the phone number of a friend/relative and how to dial 911 in case they are kidnapped by your abuser.
Make sure EVERYONE who watches your children is informed of who may and may not pick up your children.
Inform your baby-sitters of your situation, they have the right to know so they will be better prepared to protect all the children in their care.