Your parents have left again, leaving you alone with the house. Even if your neighborhood seems safe, parents' concern for your safety remains unchanged. In this article, we'll share tips on how to earn your parents' trust and feel secure.

Part 1

Step 1. Keep windows and doors locked; don’t let strangers in.

Step 1

Make sure to keep windows and doors locked and don’t open them for anyone you don’t know. This is crucial for your safety! If you think it might be your parents, check the peephole or window before opening the door to confirm it’s them. This rule also applies if your landlord has warned you about a visit. Here are a few more essential safety rules:

Step 2. Don’t touch items that your parents have forbidden.

Step 2

Follow your parents’ restrictions and don’t touch forbidden items. Some of these include:

  • First aid kit
  • Sharp knives
  • Matches and lighters

Step 3. Don’t cook without your parents’ permission.

Step 3

Avoid cooking food without your parents’ consent. If they allow it, follow the recipe without any issues.

Step 4. Turn on lights and close curtains when it gets dark.

Step 4

When it gets dark outside, turn on all outside lights, close curtains, and lower blinds. Light and sound can deter potential criminals, making them think twice before attempting anything.

Step 5. Don’t go outside if you see a suspicious person.

Step 5

If a strange person is loitering in front of your house, do not go outside or into the yard. If they attempt to trespass or steal a car, call the police immediately. If you’re unsure but feel something is off, call your parents and inform them of your suspicions.

Step 6. Clarify with your parents which channels you can watch and if you can play outside with friends.

Step 6

Ask your parents which TV channels and websites you are allowed to use, and whether you can go outside to play with friends. Write these rules down on a piece of paper and hang it on the wall in your room where you spend the most time. This will help you remember the rules.

Step 7. Check the caller ID before answering the phone.

Step 7

Before answering a call, look at the number. Are you allowed to talk to this person when you’re home alone? If the number is blocked, it’s better not to answer. If your parents are going to call you, agree on a special signal so you know it’s them.

Step 8. Answer calls from your parents.

Step 8

To stay safe, answer calls from your parents. Ask them to call twice and then hang up. This way, you’ll be sure it’s really them.

Step 9. Don’t tell strangers that you’re home alone.

Step 9

If you answer a call and the person on the other end asks to speak with your parents, don’t disclose to strangers that you are alone. Just say that your parents are busy and ask if they want to leave a message. If they continue to press, apologize and hang up. If calls persist, do not answer them.

Step 10. Be wary of prank calls.

Step 10

Be cautious of calls from acquaintances who may just be teasing you. If you suspect it's a prank, don’t answer the call!

Step 11. Don’t spend money without your parents’ permission or when no adult is around.

Step 11

Step 12. Don’t use credit cards without a genuine need.

Step 12

Do not use your or your parents’ credit card numbers unless you are in a dangerous situation! Excuses like "I just want ice cream" do not justify such actions.