Follow your parents' rules. Your parents want you to stay safe. That's why they have rules. If you're not sure what the rules are, sit down with your parents and write out a list together, so you both have something to refer to.

1) The rules might cover who you can have over (if anyone), whether you can go outside, and whether you can take phone calls.Lock the doors and windows. While break-ins are unusual, they can happen. The best thing you can do is keep the doors and windows locked when you're inside. That way, someone can't just walk in without your permission.


2) If your family has an alarm, learn how to set it so it can protect you while you're home. Set the alarm to "Stay", preferably "Instant", so that police are notified in the event of a break-in.Avoid opening the door to people you don't know. If someone comes to the door, it's best to ignore it if you don't know the person. If the person is delivering a package, ask them to leave it or come back later. Don't tell them you're by yourself.


3) It's also important not to tell people over the phone that you're by yourself at home. If someone calls for your parents, you can say, "They can't come to the phone right now. Can I have them call you back?"Stay away from dangerous items in the house. Even though you're home alone, you don't have free rein to do anything you want. You still need to stay away from dangerous things. Don't play with matches, knives, or guns, for instance. Also, don't take medications unless you know what you're doing. Don't mix chemicals and cleaners you find around the house, as it can create fumes or liquids that can hurt you.



4) Call your parents if you need to. If something happens or you don't know what to do, call your parents or another trusted adult. They can walk you through the situation so you feel safe again.

It's best to know your parents' cell phone numbers by heart, so you'll always be able to call even if you can't see the list of emergency numbers.