There are a lot of things you can do to protect yourself and your children whilst not at home, including:
- Make sure you tell your children's school or daycare who has permission to pick up the children, and if you have one, give them a copy of the VRO;
- Tell your boss, security and any other relevant person about your situation;
- Ask your boss if you can have calls and visitors screened through reception;
- Always park your car in a busy, public and well lit space. Avoid underground car parks, but if you have to use them ask someone to walk you to your car;
- If possible, change your routine, including:
- the routes you use between home and work;
- if you regularly catch a bus get off a stop earlier or later than usual;
- the shopping centres you visit and days you shop;
- places you socialise;
- other regular activities;
- Have the emergency numbers on speed dial (If life is at threat, call 000 immediately. If you need to report a breach of a Family Violence Order, or require Police attendance, call 131 444). For further information about emergency numbers, see: 2a. Calling for emergency help;
- If there is an emergency in a public place and you cannot call 000 yourself, ask bystanders to call the Police for you;
- If you are being followed in the car, don't stop – drive straight to the nearest Police station. Lock the car doors and roll up the windows in case you need to stop at lights or for traffic. If you are approached by your ex-partner while stopped for any reason, keep the doors and windows closed and sound the horn repeatedly to attract the attention of the public around you.