After School When children are home alone after school, parents can make the home safer and more comfortable. Children should have their own key to the house. Once inside, children should be instructed to lock all doors. Make sure children know how to use the phone. Practice using it with them and give instruction to never tell callers that Mom and Dad aren't home.
Children can say that parents are in the shower, asleep or simply unable to come to the phone.
Post all emergency numbers, insurance information, where parents can be reached, and numbers of neighbors by the phone. Teach your child his exact address so he can direct emergency personnel to the correct address. Simple, safe precautions make life easier for everyone.