The Coranavirius pandemic has had an enormous effect on the once “normal” way of life.  We are experiencing sickness, death, job loss and the flatlining  of our economy.  This killer virus is not just in America but throughout the world. Unprecedented measures are being implemented to combat this deadly enemy.

Safe distancing, hunkering down and self isolating are now “buzz” words that are now commonly used is everyday communication.  Schools, factories, restaurants and many entertainment and sporting events are now in a pause zone, waiting in uncertainty to see if and when they can reopen.

While, no doubt, many of these measures are necessary, there are some unintended consequences.  One of increased concern is the higher risk of domestic violence. Mayor Sharon Weston Broome of Baton Rouge, Louisiana says, “Spending days or weeks with an abusive partner or family member opens the door for immense physical or emotional trauma.”  

With the help of city officials and law enforcement agencies, the Baton Rouge District Attorney’s office has published a list of safety tips to help those living with an abusive partner.  Some of these include: Identify your partner’s use and level of force…….., Don’t run to where the children are………If violence is unavoidable, make yourself a small target…………. Please click on the link below to view the entire list of safety tips.  They could be life saving for you or your family.

You Don’t Have To Be A Victim

There is help available.  Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline below.  Click on resources to see more resources available to you.  No one deserves the pain and trauma of emotional, physical, mental or verbal abuse.  Don’t wait.  Get help now.

National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-7233

WAFB (Baton Rouge, LA) had an informative news report (with video) on Safety tips for combatting domestic violence during COVID-19 pandemic