Preventing Domestic Abuse: Important Information and Safety Tips

Domestic abuse and violence towards women and children are at unacceptable levels.
Here are some current statistics found on the internet:

1) A woman is attacked every two minutes.

2) 4 out of 10 assaults take place at the victim’s home

3) Almost 2 out of 3 women who are victims of violence are related to or know their aggressor.

4) Between 1 and 3 million women have been abused each year by their intimate partner.

5) According to the Surgeon General of the United States, domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women in the United States.

6) It is estimated that more than one million women each year have been stalked by an intimate partner in the United States.

7) Every day 4 women die as a result of abuse.

8) Every day 3 children die as a result of abuse.

9) In 2005, adolescent women (12-19 years) experienced 1.5 million violent crimes; this figure includes 75,354 sexual assaults and rapes

Domestic violence affects all types of women, regardless of their income, age, race, education, or belief system. Domestic violence is a major contributing factor to other problems such as child abuse, neglect, drug and alcohol abuse, emotional problems, job loss, homelessness, and suicide attempts. Almost a third of American women report being physically or sexually abused by their husband or boyfriend at some point in their lives.

Family violence costs the nation $ 24 billion annually in medical expenses, police and court costs, shelters and foster homes, sick leave, absenteeism and lack of productivity. Indirect costs bring this to $ 84 billion. These statistics are grim reminders that domestic abuse and violence towards women and children is a real and dangerous problem for millions of people. We must do everything we can to stop the rise in violence and reverse the statistics.

The good news is that there are people and agencies in almost every community that help women. People help each other fight this problem, step by step. There are many important steps we can take to help. Let’s list some of these:

1) If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse, it is important to act immediately. Get away from the abuse as soon as possible. Report the abuse to your local agency or a women’s advocacy organization. Help is available.

two) Be on the lookout for warning signs to prevent yourself or someone you know from becoming a victim. The seeds of violence are often planted long before the physical abuse occurs. Get away from a possible violent situation or seek help to do so.

3) Learn important home and personal safety tips to help you and your family stay safe.

4) Donate time, supplies, money, and other resources to local organizations and shelters. They need your help.

5) Support public awareness and education – Public awareness is essential to keep these issues on national, state and local agendas. Violence prevention begins in our schools and our public agencies. Education is the key to opening the door to a healthy and productive dialogue about domestic violence.