How to Spot Something That’s Just Not Right
The Big Step of Staying Home Alone
Being home alone for the first time can feel like a big adventure, but it’s also a sign that you’re growing up and becoming more responsible.
But with great adventure comes great responsibility.
This article is here to help you learn how to stay safe and sound while in charge at home, even if it’s just for a little while.
We’ll cover some essential rules and tips so you can feel confident and prepared.
Knowing When You’re Ready
There is no magic age at which a child is ready to stay home alone. It’s different for everyone.
Some kids might be ready at 10, while others might be older. Most importantly, you feel comfortable, and your parents or guardians think you’re responsible enough.
Here are some signs that you might be ready:
- You follow the rules even when no one is watching.
- You know how to call for help if you need it.
- You don’t get scared easily when you’re by yourself.
- You can make yourself a simple snack.
- You understand what to do in an emergency, like if the smoke alarm goes off.
It’s important to talk with your parents about this. If you don’t feel ready, it’s okay to say so, but it’s better to wait until you’re truly comfortable.
Essential Safety Rules for Being Home Alone
Once you and your parents decide you’re ready, it’s time to learn some important safety rules. These rules are like your superhero cape – they help protect you!
Rule #1: Don’t Open the Door to Strangers
It is a big one! Even if someone says they know your parents or that there’s an emergency, you should never open the door if you’re home alone.
- What to do: Don’t answer if a stranger knocks or rings the doorbell. You can go to a window where you can see them, but they can’t see you, or use a peephole. Call your parents or another trusted adult immediately if they don’t leave or make you feel scared. Call 911 (or your local emergency number) if you feel in danger.
- Remember: It’s okay to be rude if it keeps you safe. You don’t have to talk to anyone you don’t know.
Rule #2: Keep Your Whereabouts Private
It’s essential to keep it a secret that you’re home alone.
- Online Safety: Don’t post on social media that you’re home alone. People you don’t know could see it. The FBI warns that online predators often look for kids who are home alone.
- Phone Calls: If someone calls and asks for your parents, you can say, “They can’t come to the phone right now. Can I take a message?” You don’t need to tell them you’re alone.
Rule #3: Know How to Handle Emergencies
Emergencies can happen, but you can stay safe if you know what to do.
- Fire Safety: Leave the house immediately if you smell smoke or the alarm goes off. Don’t stop to grab anything. Go to your family’s designated meeting spot outside. Once you’re out, call 911 (or your local emergency number) from a neighbor’s or your cell phone if you have one.
- Medical Emergencies: If you or someone else gets hurt or feels very sick, call 911. Be ready to tell the operator your name, address, and what’s happening. Stay on the phone with them until they tell you it’s okay to hang up.
- Power Outages: If the power goes out, find a flashlight. Don’t light candles, as they can be a fire hazard. Tell a trusted adult about the power outage.
Rule #4: Safe Snacking and Kitchen Rules
If you can make yourself a snack, know the rules for using kitchen appliances.
- Stove and Oven: Only use the stove or oven if your parents have approved it and you know how to use it safely. Never leave it unattended when it’s on.
- Microwave: Microwaves are usually safer, but only microwave-safe dishes and containers are used. Never put metal in the microwave.
- Sharp Objects: Be careful when using knives or other sharp tools. Always cut away from yourself and keep your fingers clear.
- Clean Up: Clean up any spills immediately so no one slips and falls.
Rule #5: Online and Phone Safety
Being online can be fun, but it’s essential to be safe.
- Keep Personal Information Private: Don’t share your full name, address, phone number, school name, or password with people you don’t know.
- Don’t Meet Up: Never agree to meet someone in person whom you’ve only met online. If someone asks you to meet them, tell a trusted adult immediately.
- Cyberbullying: Tell a trusted adult if someone is mean to you online or makes you uncomfortable. You don’t have to deal with it alone. Block the person and save any messages as proof.
- Trust Your Gut: If something online makes you feel weird or uncomfortable, log off and tell a trusted adult.
What to Do If You Feel Scared or Uncomfortable
Sometimes, feeling scared or uncomfortable when you’re home alone is okay. The most important thing is to know what to do.
- Call a Trusted Adult: Have a list of phone numbers for your parents, a trusted neighbor, or another family member you can call if you feel scared or something happens.
- Go to a Safe Spot: If something scares you inside the house, go to a room where you feel safe and call for help. If there’s a safe place outside your house (like a trusted neighbor’s home), that’s an option, too, but only if you can get there safely.
- Stick to Your Rules: Remember your parents’ safety rules. Knowing these rules and what to do can help you feel more confident and less scared.
Conclusion: You’ve Got This!
Staying home alone is a big step, but it’s also a sign that you’re growing up and becoming more responsible. By learning these safety rules and talking about them with your parents, you can be prepared for different situations. Remember, it’s always okay to ask for help if you need it. You’ve got this!
Call to Action: Talk about these safety tips with your parents or guardians. Create a home safety plan together! What’s one new thing you learned that you will put into practice?
Elizabeth Redd, the Publisher of this website, grew up in a small town called Newhall, West Virginia, before moving to Washington, DC, in 1964. She worked in Prince George's County Public School System in Maryland for 40 years, opened a wig shop, made clothes, and participated in fashion shows during the '70s and '80s. She worked part-time as a caterer for a couple of years. Hand dancing has been one of her passions. She has also worked in Internet marketing for the last ten years. She also has a passion for learning new things.
She has learned that success is measured not so much by the position one has reached in life but by the obstacles one has overcome while trying to succeed. One thing is for sure: she is living her best life.