If your child carries a set of house keys, it’s critical to teach them a few security and safety basics. In addition to keeping them safe so that you don’t have to worry about having replacement keys made for the locks, these suggestions will also safeguard your little ones when they arrive home.

Teaching Kids About House Key Safety

1. Make Key Protection a Priority

Even adults are prone to losing keys, so it’s no surprise that kids are also likely to lose track of such a small item at some point during the course of the day. Instead of slipping the key into a pocket or their backpack, attach it to something more substantial so that there’s little chance they’ll misplace it. Try a lanyard, for example, or a long keychain that you can hook inside their bag. Make sure not to place it on the bag’s exterior; the keys should always remain hidden. Remind them that after they open the lock, they should always slip it back inside their bag. Alternatively, you can keep a key basket or similar spot in the entryway where everyone has quick and easy access to their keys.

2. Practice Spare Key Safety

Never leave a spare house key in an obvious spot that might be discovered by an intruder. It’s all too common for homeowners to slip them underneath a doormat, on a window ledge, or beneath a flower pot or a rock. These are all areas that an unwelcome visitor may think to check, and if someone is scoping the house, it could easily pose a threat to your child’s safety if they’re home alone. It’s much safer to give your spare key to a neighbor that you trust. Make sure it’s someone relatively close by that your child also knows. They’ll feel less anxious, and you’ll have more peace of mind knowing your little one was able to open the lock quickly and safely.

3. Create a Plan for Unexpected Events

You never know what might happen—keys can get misplaced, the neighbor might not be home, or the key may even get stuck in the lock. It’s always best to have a plan in place just in case something unexpected occurs. Sit down with your child and outline a few ideas that are practical and safe. For example, if something happens, you and your child can agree that he should go to the nearest library if it’s within walking distance and familiar to him, then wait there until you arrive. If you need to contact a locksmith, you can always do so after you’ve picked up your child.

Homeowners throughout Richmond Hill, GA, trust in the professionals at Richmond Hill Locksmith to assist when they need a trustworthy locksmith. In addition to helping you with stuck locks, they specialize in deadbolt installation, new lock replacements, and lock rekeys. Visit them online for information, or call (912) 727-3878.