Home Alone: Safety Edition

There is always a brief time period where your kids will have to be left alone. No parent likes it. But every parent has to go through it. Sometimes you have to work late. Other times, you have to run an errand. You probably have an appointment that you just can't reschedule. In those times, it's important to know certain steps to ensure the safety for your child at home alone. Even though you can't be there to keep an eye on him or her, you can be sure they follow these simple guidelines in case of any emergency.

Keep all emergency numbers on the fridge. Your work number. Your spouse's work number. Everyone's cell phone numbers. It's good to add another family member's number just in case neither you or your spouse can be reached. Teach your kids the importance of 9-1-1 and how to get out of the house in case of a fire.

Frequent phone calls. Make sure your kids are safe by calling in hourly to check on them. This allows you to keep a closer eye on them without actually being there to watch them. Also, be sure they never answer the phone if they don't recognize the number.

Ground rules. This is very important, but not all kids follow through. Make a list of rules that they need to stick with such as no friends over, no cooking that involves the stove or oven, and no answering the door or phone. If you want to be sure your kids are following your rules, installing a video surveillance system with an alarm company would definitely benefit their safety. This allows you to keep an eye on them even when you can't be home.

Lay out a schedule. This keeps your kids from getting bored and ensures that they get their chores and schoolwork done. The last thing you want is for your kids to get home from school and zone out in front of the TV. Set up a list of chores they need to perform before you get home like dusting the living room or cleaning their bedrooms.

Safety is important, especially for your young ones. This set of guidelines will ease your mind while you are out of the house but they are stuck in it. Planning ahead is important for parenthood. Even when you can't be there to watch over them, rest assured that they are safe with these simple ideas!

About the author: Carly is passionate about Smith home security. She loves to write about home decor and DIY projects. She can usually be found at a nearby Starbucks typing away on her laptop.