Are your children home alone? That brief moment between the end of the school day and the end of your work day may be just an hour, but it seems like an eternity to a concerned parent. It is important to think about how to create a safe environment for your children and greater peace of mind for you! Here are some ways to increase your child's safety when you're not home.
1. Install Fire Alarms
Every home should have smoke detectors as well as fire alarms. Some security systems already have these alarms, but if not, make sure you install them in your home. In addition to installing fire alarms, you need to explain how they work. Show them how they sound and tell them that if the alert sounds it is a warning signal so they should act immediately by leaving the house, and calling the emergency services afterwards. Create an emergency plan and remember to practice it until everyone in the house learns how to act in an emergency.
2. Install a Security System
According to security experts such as Star Alarm Panama, the best way to have peace of mind when your children are home alone is by installing a security system, with video surveillance. These systems have many benefits including:
1. They Let You Keep an Eye on the Babysitter
If you have children, it is very common to use a babysitter for when you are away from home. Leaving your children in someone else's care can be a terrifying experience, especially for new parents and those with new babysitters. Having security cameras in your home allows you to access through your mobile phone or tablet and know what is happening inside your house in real time. You don't have to be worried about what is happening. Home security cameras let you relax when you are away from home.
2. They allow you to keep an eye on your children
When your children are old enough to be allowed to stay home alone, cameras connected to the security system can give you added peace of mind. For example, if your kids get home from school before you get home from work, you can set an alert that sends you a video notification when someone opens and walks through the front door. You can also use the cameras of the security system to see from a mobile device what your children are doing to be sure that they are doing their schoolwork and jobs. It's like being there without being physically there.
3. They Help You Detect Any Suspicious Activity
When you have a home security system you can receive notifications from the security company that a sensor has been activated. This gives you the ability to alert your children that something may be going on. If you have cameras installed and connected to your home security system, you can also receive video notifications, and see what is happening in real time from wherever you are. You will be able to know immediately if it is something serious or a false alarm. As you can see, cameras and home security systems are excellent tools so you can rest easy leaving your children at home alone or with a babysitter.
3. Write a Manual of Conduct
It is important to establish the rules that your children must follow when they are alone at home. It's a good idea to write them down with them so that everyone agrees. The conduct manual should include: Have your child call the moment they get home from school or a friend's house. They cannot leave the house unless it is an emergency. Define what an emergency is and what is the plan to follow in that situation State that you must get home on time or call if you are going to be late. Don't forget to make a list of all important phone numbers including: that of both parents, neighbors, emergency services, security company, etc.
Conclusion
It is important that you explain to them about the dangers that exist, and prepare them for these situations so that they feel more confident being home alone. Remind them not to let anyone into the house, including neighbors or messengers. Even if you have a security system and surveillance cameras that notify you of any suspicious activity, it is still necessary to teach your children what to do if an emergency arises.