Anna helped Rose make a safety plan in case Rose wanted or needed to leave suddenly. Making the safety plan helped Rose prepare things that she needs. It gave her a sense of being in control.

The following are some ideas of what Rose did to be prepared.

• Keep the address of the nearest shelter written somewhere secret. Know that you can get it quickly.

• Phone the shelter near you ahead of time and find out whether they will pay for a taxi in case you have to leave your home suddenly. Most shelters use a particular taxi company and provide a ride if you live within the area. Keep the taxi company phone number in a safe place. Ask a friend or someone you trust if you may phone her or him in an emergency.

• Sometimes it is more difficult and frustrating to be understood when you are scared. This is more so if you speak little English. Write down the words such as "I am being abused and I need a place to stay" on a piece of paper or say it a few times before you have to say it on the telephone. This will help make yourself clear when you phone the shelter.

There are some important documents that you need to have with you, if you leave suddenly. Collect all important documents and keep them in a safe place. If possible, make copies of the documents.

• Alberta Health Care card
• Social Insurance Card
• Driver's license/Registration
• Credit cards and bank card
• Canadian Immigration papers
• Passport
• Personal identification (including picture identification)
• Birth certificate(s)
• Immunization card for the children
• Personal chequebook
• Last banking statement
• Mortgage papers

When leaving suddenly, make sure you take personal items such as:

• Prescribed medication (medicine the doctor gives you)
• Personal hygiene products
• Glasses/Contact Lenses
• Money (if possible)
• Clothing (night wear, underwear)
• Heirlooms, Jewellery
• Photo albums (pictures that you want to keep)
• Crafts, needle work, hobby work

For your children, you should also try to bring with you:

• Medication
• Soothers and bottles
• Clothing (night wear, underwear)
• Special blanket and/or toy