Domestic Violence Awareness Month started Monday

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - A month dedicated to bringing awareness to the seriousness of domestic violence started at the Vigo County Courthouse Monday morning.

Mayor Duke Bennett teamed up with the Terre Haute chapter of the Council of Domestic Abuse Inc. (CODA) for a banner drop to bring awareness to the number of abuse victims as a result of domestic violence.

Domestic violence can range from a physical beating to verbally demoralizing a friend, spouse, child, relative, someone from a different ethnicity, background, social status, financial situation, lifestyle choices, sexual orientation or physical abilities. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT WHAT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IS | Click here

CODA and the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV) suggest to have a safety guide in case of the possibility of domestic abuse.

According to NCADV your safety plan should include:

If you are still in the relationship:

1. Think of a safe place to go if an argument occurs - avoid rooms with no exits (bathroom), or rooms with weapons (kitchen).
2. Think about and make a list of safe people to contact.
3. Keep change with you at all times.
4. Memorize all important numbers.
5. Establish a "code word" or "sign" so that family, friends, teachers or co-workers know when to call for help.
6. Think about what you will say to your partner if he\she becomes violent.
7. Remember, you have the right to live without fear and violence.

If you have left the relationship:  

1. Change your phone number.
2. Screen calls.
3. Save and document all contacts, messages, injuries or other incidents involving the batterer.
4. Change locks, if the batterer has a key.
5. Avoid staying alone.
6. Plan how to get away if confronted by an abusive partner.
7. If you have to meet your partner, do it in a public place.
8. Vary your routine.
9. Notify school and work contacts.
10. Call a shelter for battered women.  

If you leave the relationship or are thinking of leaving, you should take important papers and documents with you to enable you to apply for benefits or take legal action.

If you, or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse, you can contact:

• Terre Haute chapter of the Council of Domestic Abuse at ( 812)-232-1736 or 1-800-566-2632
• The National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
• Local Authorities via 911