You might not think there’s much you can do to help someone in a domestic violence situation – but there is. Keeping your eyes and ears open and speaking publicly against domestic violence is just the beginning.

• Call the police if you see or hear evidence of domestic violence.

• Speak out publicly against domestic violence.

• Take action personally against domestic violence when a neighbor, a co-worker, a friend, or a family member is involved or being abused.

• Encourage your neighborhood watch or block association to become as concerned with watching out for domestic violence as with burglaries and other crimes.

• Reach out to support someone whom you believe is a victim of domestic violence and/or talk with a person you believe is being abusive.

• Help others become informed, by inviting speakers to your church, professional organization, civic group, or workplace.

• Support domestic violence counseling programs and shelters.

Adapted from: US Department of Agriculture, Safety,
Health and Employee Welfare Division at http://www.usda.gov/da/shmd/aware.htm. Accessed July 20, 2006.