Statistics show that unsupervised children are at greater risk of being involved in accidents and being harmed by strangers, siblings or friends.
Here are some tips from the Police Department to help keep your kids safe at home:
1. Safety check the residence for possible risks, including obvious dangers such as firearms and kitchen appliances that use natural gas.
2. Make sure the children know how to get out of the house in case of a fire or other emergency.
3. Put together a first aid kit with the children and explain what to do in the event of an injury.
4. Practice what to say if 911 is called. In stressful situations children may not know what to say.
5. Keep doors and windows locked at all times.
6. Keep a list of important phone numbers near the telephone.
7. Teach the children how to take telephone messages and instruct them to never tell a caller that they are alone.
8. Have the children help make rules about having friends over or going to a friend’s house. Children are more likely to follow rules they help make.
9. If there is a swimming pool at the home, be sure the children know there is no playing in the back yard and no swimming.