What is domestic violence?

According to Washington State Department of Health, domestic violence – or intimate partner violence – is not physical violence alone.

It’s any behavior intended to gain or maintain power and control over a spouse, partner, girlfriend, boyfriend or intimate family member.

Abuse is a learned behavior; it’s not caused by anger, mental problems, drugs or alcohol or other common excuses.

What can I do if someone I know is a victim of domestic violence?

Listen to their story and believe them.

Hold what you are told in confidence.

Encourage your friend to think about safety. Help your friend make concrete plans that deal with the most likely “what ifs.”

Reach out to a local domestic violence program. Link is below.

http://wscadv.org/washington-domestic-violence-programs/

What to do if you are a victim of domestic violence:

Call 911 and report the incident. You do not need to be able to speak English. The 911 operator will be able to assist you.

Seek medical attention if necessary. Have injuries documented and photographed.

Go to a safe place.

Tell someone you trust about the abuse: a family member, friend, victim advocate or coworker. You do not have to face abuse alone.

Make a safety plan, call the Pierce County Family Justice Center at (253) 798-4166 or a local domestic violence program for more information. [Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-562-6025]

Download PDF version with images: http://www.ci.bonney-lake.wa.us/UserFiles/File/Government_Downloads/Police/2016-06_BLPD-Tips-DV.pdf