If you think you are unsafe in your relationship, you can take steps to protect yourself. Spruce Run can help you prepare a Safety Plan and tell you about laws and resources before you need them.

If you or your children have recently been hurt or threatened by someone who is or was close to you, you may be able to get an emergency protection order. This may be done with or without a lawyer. A Spruce Run worker can explain what a protective order is, how to get one, assist in filling out the forms, and can help explore safety concerns.

Domestic violence is a crime. Police may arrest without a warrant if they have reason to believe that assault, criminal threatening, terrorizing, or reckless conduct has taken place. Police must arrest if there has been a violation of a protective order or an aggravated assault. Maine law requires the police to stay with you as long as they think you are in danger of physical abuse and help you get necessary medical attention. Spruce Run can offer information and support when dealing with the criminal process.

Keep the following items in a safe place:

• House and car keys;
• Important papers (social security cards, birth certificates, photo ID, license & registration);
• Money (checkbook, credit cards, food stamps);
• Medications for you and your children and children’s immunization records;
• Important phone numbers (relatives, friends, police, Spruce Run);
• Other personal items that you need (clothing, glasses).

Create a safety network:

• Have good locks on your windows and doors;
• Tell your friends, neighbors, and landlord how they can be helpful;
• Ask neighbors to call the police on a prearranged signal from you;
• Think about how you can be safe at work, including getting there and back.

If you think you may need to leave:

• Plan the safest time to get away;
• Think about who you would call, where you would go, and how you would get there;
• Call Spruce Run if you want help making a plan;
• If your ex-partner visits the children, consider exchanging them at a safe public place, and setting consistent times for visits and/or phone calls with or about the children.

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Being abused by someone you love is frightening and degrading. We believe you have a right to peace and dignity in your home. There is help available. A Spruce Run Worker is available 24 hours a day. All services are free and confidential 1-800-863-9909