GUEST POSTS: Ways To Keep Your Children Safe When They Are Home Alone
In many families today both parents work to make ends meet. This results in children often returning to an empty house after school. Although parents may not be home to ensure their children’s safety, there are home security measures they can take to ensure their home is a safe environment for their family.
Home Security System
Installing a home security system is one way you can help secure the safety of your children while you are away. A quality home security system will alert children when there is danger of someone trying to break into their home, giving them ample time to call the police or neighbors for assistance. Home security systems with 24/7 monitoring services provide ample protection against intruders and burglars entering your abode. These high tech wireless security systems can be customized for any home setting to provide optimum protection for your loved ones and home.
Educating Your Children on Home Safety
Parents should also educate their children on safety and security before leaving them home alone. Children should be instructed to keep doors locked at all times and never to open doors to strangers. Phone numbers of close neighbors, police and fire department should be posted next to the phone where children can find them easily in the event of an emergency. Children should also be taught how to dial 911 for emergency assistance.
Safety measures should also be taken within the home to protect children against accidents. The old adage that “accidents do not happen, they are caused” is very true in the home environment. Parents can help prevent accidents from happening by keeping on top of home improvements throughout the house. Parents should instruct children to stay out of rooms used for storage such as the basement, attic or garage when kids are alone. Parents can also set rules against cooking or using sensitive kitchen appliances when parents are not there to prevent possible accidents from occurring. Harmful chemicals, medicines, sharp kitchen knives, etc. should be placed under lock and key when children are home alone, as they pose a risk to a child’s safety.
Alternatives to Leaving Children Alone at Home
Younger children should never be left in the house alone, even for short intervals even if it is legal to do so. If parents allow older children to be home alone, they should ensure the children are mature enough to take care of themselves and handle emergency situations that may arise. Most children under 12 do not have the maturity to be left alone without endangering their welfare. Some possible alternatives to this situation would be for parents to hire a caregiver during after school hours. Arrangements could also be made for children to stay with neighbors or friends who have one parent at home during this time.
As a parent, one of your greatest responsibilities is the safety and welfare of your children. Children who stay home alone for any length of time deserve utmost protection and care. By installing a home security system and educating your children on home safety and protection, you can help create a safer, more secure environment for your kids when you are not there.
Jennifer Kurtz is a stay-at-home mom who writes about Technology and Lifestyle on her blog. She often writes for companies like Lifeshield about home security issues & solutions. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband, her 2-year-old son, and a cat named Einstein.
Date: June 19, 2012


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