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So, you're going to be home alone! It's an exciting step, but it's okay to feel a bit nervous too. It's all part of taking on new responsibilities. But don't worry, there are things you can do to avoid any dangers while you're at home, and also know what to do if an emergency arises.
Steps
Avoiding Risk
Adhere to your parents' guidelines. Your parents' rules are in place to keep you safe. Take some time to go over them together if you're unsure. It's important for both you and your parents to have a clear understanding of what's expected.
- The rules might include who you can invite over (if anyone), whether you're allowed outside, and how to handle phone calls.
Secure doors and windows. Although burglaries are rare, it's important to keep your doors and windows locked while you're indoors. This prevents unauthorized entry and enhances your safety.
- If your home has an alarm system, familiarize yourself with its operation. Set it to 'Stay' mode, preferably 'Instant,' to alert the authorities immediately in case of a break-in.
Exercise caution with unknown visitors. If someone you don't recognize knocks on the door, it's safest to ignore them. If it's a delivery person, ask them to leave the package or return later. Avoid mentioning that you're home alone.
- Similarly, refrain from disclosing your solo presence over the phone. If someone asks for your parents, respond, 'They're unavailable at the moment. Can I take a message?'
EXPERT TIP
Saul Jaeger, MS
Police Captain, Mountain View Police Department
Police Captain, Mountain View Police Department
Expert Advice: If you're a child home alone, consider turning on the TV loudly so any visitors know someone's home. If someone knocks, try calling out, 'Hey Dad, someone's at the door!' to avoid giving the impression you're alone.
Avoid hazardous items. Even when home alone, remember to steer clear of danger. Refrain from playing with matches, knives, or firearms. Additionally, avoid taking medications unless instructed, and never mix household chemicals, which can produce harmful fumes or liquids.
Reach out to your parents when necessary. If you encounter a problem or feel unsure, don't hesitate to contact your parents or another trusted adult. They can provide guidance to help you feel secure again.
- Memorize your parents' cell phone numbers so you can call them even without access to emergency contacts.
Dealing with Emergencies
Keep emergency contacts handy. Be prepared for emergencies by having essential numbers readily available. Know the emergency number 9-1-1 (in the United States) for fire, break-ins, or injuries. However, reserve 9-1-1 calls for genuine emergencies.
- Maintain a list of emergency contacts, including your parents' numbers and other trusted individuals you can reach out to for assistance, such as neighbors or family members.
- If you don't have these numbers memorized, ask your parents to create a list for easy reference.
Practice making emergency calls. When dialing 9-1-1, it's crucial to provide key information like your address, the nature of the emergency, and your phone number. Practice these calls with your parents to ensure you're prepared for any situation.
Simulate emergency scenarios with your parents. It's natural to feel panicked during unexpected events, but remaining calm is essential. To learn how to stay composed, rehearse emergency procedures with your parents beforehand.
- Discuss potential household emergencies, such as a toilet overflow, smoke alarm activation, or kitchen fire, with your parents.
Familiarize yourself with emergency exits. Knowing multiple ways to exit your home is vital for safety. While the front and back doors are obvious options, you should also be aware of alternative exits, especially in the event of a fire.
- Review evacuation routes with your parents to ensure you're prepared for various scenarios.
Acquire basic first aid skills. Being home alone requires you to handle minor injuries like cuts or burns. While severe cases warrant a 9-1-1 call, minor injuries can be self-treated.
- For cuts, clean the wound, apply antibiotic ointment, and cover it with a bandage.
- For bruises, elevate the affected area and apply a cold compress.
- For minor burns, run cool water over the area and apply aloe vera gel.
- Locate your household's first aid kit or assemble one with your parents' guidance.
Identifying Warning Signs
Avoid entering your home if you notice a broken window or open door. If you arrive home to find something suspicious, refrain from entering the house. A broken window could indicate an intruder inside. Prioritize your safety by seeking refuge at a neighbor's or friend's house and dialing 9-1-1. You can also return to school if necessary.
Exercise caution when admitting familiar individuals. Even if the person knocking is an adult you know, you're not obligated to let them in if you feel uneasy. Trust your instincts and contact your parents if uncertain.
- Some families establish code words to verify the identity of individuals sent by parents. If someone arrives claiming to be sent by your parents, request the code word for confirmation.
Investigate unusual sounds. While houses often produce peculiar noises due to settling, any unusual sounds warrant investigation. If you detect signs of danger, take appropriate action.
- If you suspect a break-in, evacuate the premises if possible and seek refuge at a neighbor's house.
Heed warning signals. Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are standard safety features in homes. Respond promptly to their alerts by evacuating the house and dialing 9-1-1 from a neighbor's residence if unsure of what to do.
- If you observe smoke, promptly call 9-1-1 for assistance from the fire department. Attempt to use a fire extinguisher only if properly trained, otherwise prioritize evacuating the premises.
- Be vigilant for gas odors if your home has a gas stove or heater. Immediately vacate the premises if you detect a gas smell, as it may indicate a leak. Natural gas is often scented with an odor resembling rotten eggs.
Helpful Advice
- If you have a pet, especially a dog, keep them close as their presence can provide a sense of security.
- If you're home alone and feeling anxious about potential threats, don't hesitate to call your parents. They can offer reassurance and support.
- If you're unsure of your parents' phone number but need to be home alone, consider writing it down on a piece of paper and keeping it with you in case of an emergency.
