Here is a list of important things to have in a bag that you can snatch up if you need to quickly flee your home. Of course, you may not have an opportunity to grab this bag in time, or it could be found, so it is a good idea to photocopy the documents listed below and keep them somewhere outside of the home (friend or family’s house, safe-deposit box.)
- contact list
- identification
- birth certificates of yourself and your children (or adoption papers)
- marriage certificates
- social security cards
- school records
- medical records
- emergency cash
- Medications
- safe combinations/keys
- list of checking and savings account numbers
- credit card numbers and credit card company contact information
- keys to house car office
- drivers license
- vehicle titles and registration
- passports, green cards, work permits, visas
- military service records
- divorce papers
- Lease/rental agreements
- loan agreements
- real estate deeds
- insurance papers
- address book
- cell phone (keep in mind that all cell phones can be easily tracked)
- pictures, jewelry, items for sentimental value
- children’s favorite books toys or blanket
- will and/or trust documents
- powers of attorney
- recent investment statements
- recent tax returns
- employment contracts
- computer usernames and passwords
- Order of Protection
- ATM card
- Check book
- Credit card
- Public Assistance ID
- Your partner’s social security number
- Address book
- Any other important legal documents
- Police records
- Record of violence
- Baby’s things (diapers, formula, medication)
- Children’s school and immunization records
- Clothing
- Eye glasses
- Lease
- Non-perishable snacks for children (e.g. juice and crackers)
- Important phone numbers including HAVEN’s Crisis Line: 406-586-4111 (If you are not in Montana, call the national hotline at 800.799.SAFE (7233))