Back-to-School Safety Tips for Children

It is that time again in the season where children return to school. There are so many safety concerns with kids and school these days it is difficult to know where to focus. Depending upon the age of your child, mapping out routes for walking, biking and preparing them for school bus etiquette will assist in preventing problem areas as they travel to and from school. Many schools now have e-alerts which can provide a key contact with updates and emergency information through email or text.

If your child is older, discussions on proper use of cell phones during school (know who is calling, what NOT to send people and why) and Internet protocol is usually the way to go. It may also be wise to remind your young drivers that smaller children will be walking to and from school so extra caution should be taken at the wheel.

If you work outside the home and want to be notified when your family begins to arrive home, there are certain security features that can be added to your home to provide you with video clips, email and/or Internet alerts. For example, you can be alerted when:

• The children come home for school
• The backyard gate is opened
• The garage door is opened
• Someone uses the pool
• Your gun safe or liquor cabinet is opened
• A car drives up your driveway
• Someone arms / disarms the security system

These are just a few ways a well designed security system can help you as you and your family begin the 2011-2012 school year.