For the most part, kids rely on the adults in their lives to keep them safe. This is the way it’s supposed to be; however, as kids grow, adults cannot be around at all times. This is why it is essential to teach your kids how to respond in emergency situations so that they do not panic if they are ever in danger. Of course, you cannot plan for every single situation that could arise, but just by walking through specific scenarios will give them the confidence to know that they can handle them if needed. Here are some basic security tips that can help keep your kids safe.

1. If your kids walk home from school without an adult, make sure they choose the safest route and know how to navigate it correctly. This means understanding where to cross streets, how to stay out of places that are isolated and not well-lit and avoiding strangers. Your kids should also contact you the minute they arrive home so you know they are safe.

2. Show your kids how to lock doors and windows and explain to them that the locks should never be unlocked when they are inside. They should also know how to arm and disarm your home security system and what to do if the siren goes off. Provide your kids with the home security system secret code so they can assist the monitoring company if the alarm goes off by mistake.

3. Teach kids how to dial 911 and when they should use it. Explain to them that this number is only for true emergencies when they feel they are in danger or if someone is badly hurt. Your kids should also memorize their phone number and address to give to the 911 operator if necessary.

4. Your kids should never open the door for anyone. Talk to them about the various tactics people might use to get inside, such as posing as a police officer or other public servant and tell them they should always call you when someone unexpected comes to the door.

5. Do not allow your kids to use the Internet while you are not home. Kids might slip up and tell a stranger that they are alone, which could result in a very dangerous situation.

6. Explain to your kids why they should never give their personal information to anyone. This includes their full name, address, phone number and any other identifying information. Your kids should know that some people are looking to harm them in any way possible and will use that information to get access to them.

Of course, you don’t want to frighten your kids to the point where they are afraid of leaving the house or being in it, but you do need to help them be prepared for the worst-case scenario. Having a plan of action will help them calmly assess a situation and do what they need to do to get out of it. Times have changed and so has the world you live in. Take the necessary steps to keep your kids safe.