Based on parent work schedules and proximity to home, it’s common for children to walk themselves to and from school. While this method is convenient and an excellent way for your child to stay active and assert some independence, taking this step should be an on-going conversation that includes practicing using home security systems in advance. Before your child starts walking alone, here are a few tips to follow so they arrive safely and reduce the likelihood of setting off your burglar alarm accidentally. 

4 Recommendations to Ensure Children Walking Home From School Stay Safe

1. Practice the Route

Before your child embarks on their first walk to school without you, practice the route together and require that they take the same path every day. During the practice run, remind them to obey traffic signals and look both ways before crossing the street. When possible, see if there are other children in the neighborhood they can walk with. 

2. Create a Safety Checklist

To put your mind at ease, create a safety checklist so you always know that your child arrived at school or back home without issue. This checklist should also include a sound understanding of your home security system. Make sure they memorize the code and have it written down in a safe place just in case they forget. Once they’re safely inside, reiterate the fact that they should lock all the doors and turn the burglar alarm back on. 

3. Memorize Emergency Numbers

If you’re still at work when your child arrives home from school, they should know who to call in case of an emergency. Discuss which friends and neighbors to reach out to for assistance and have them memorize their phone numbers so it’s easy to get in contact. 

4. Know Your Home Security System

Most importantly, use your home security system so you know they are protected in your absence. Before agreeing to walks to and from school, test them to confirm they understand how to turn your burglar alarm off and on with ease. 

For the last 19 years, residents throughout the Tri-State area and Greater Cincinnati, OH, have depended on Emergency Systems for home security and commercial alarm systems. If you’re looking for a small, local company that knows each client by name, provides hands-on assistance, and peace of mind, call this business today at (859) 525-8272 to discuss your access control needs. For additional information on the products and services they specialize in, from security cameras to fire alarms, visit their website.