Whether your teenager is home alone after school until you get home from work or even briefly while you run errands, here are some safety tips that may help keep them safe.
- Stay connected. Keep in touch with your child and check in regularly through Skype, FaceTime or by cell phone.
- Practice makes perfect. Practice what to do in the case of an emergency BEFORE leaving your teenager alone. This includes what to do in case of a fire or medical emergency.
- Ground rules. Set a list of guidelines for your teenager so he/she knows exactly what is expected of him/her.
- Backup plan. Ask a trusted relative or neighbor to regularly check in with your teenager. You can also appeal to your local police for added vigilance of your home.
- Keep it quiet. Make sure your teenager does not announce that he or she is home alone on social media.
- Knowledge is power. Teach your teenager how to use your home alarm system.
- Double check. Make sure all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly and refresh the batteries.
This information is courtesy of Century 21 life@home newsletter.
