September in WNC means cooler temperatures, the beginning of fall color on our trees, and kids going back to school! This year, things are looking a little different for many of our students. Rotating school schedules and remote learning while many parents return or have returned to work mean that things may be a little (or a lot) chaotic for some families. Here’s how to keep your child safe whether they’re learning at home, at school, or a combination of the two.

Remote Learning Safety Tips

If your child is old enough to stay home by him or herself, make sure he or she knows and has practiced the following:

• Call 9-1-1 first in any emergency.
• Call mom or dad at work, or call a friend or neighbor for help.
• Do not answer the door if someone knocks, and don’t answer the phone unless they recognize the number. (Have a list of numbers they’re allowed to answer, or allow them only to answer if you’re the one calling.)
• Don’t use the stove or oven.
• Teach your child how to set and operate your home alarm system.
• Make sure all doors and windows are locked before you leave, and instruct your child not to unlock them.

Back to School Safety Tips

If your child is going back to school, follow these tips to keep them safe:

• Choose a backpack that has ergonomic features such as padded handles and straps, and ensure that the weight of the backpack is distributed evenly when you child places it on his or her back. Have your child use both straps when wearing the backpack.
• If your child will walk, take a bus, or ride their bike to school, practice the route with them ahead of time. Walk them to the bus stop, or go with them on the route to school, making sure they know where all safe crossroads are. Teach your child about stranger danger.
• When your child arrives home after school, be sure he or she knows the code to your alarm system, as well as how to reset it.
• If your child will be following an A/B schedule — going to school some days and learning remotely on other days — be sure everyone in the household is familiar with the schedule. Keep a large calendar on the refrigerator or another visible spot, and have a check in each night to be sure everyone’s schedule is set for the following day, with all schoolwork, lunches, keys, and other materials set out and ready to go. Work with your partner ahead of time to ensure that everyone knows pick up times and which days each of you will pick up your child.

Communication is key! Have a nightly check in with your family to make sure everyone knows the schedule for the following day. For more information on back to school safety, check out this article from the National Safety Council. 

Installing a Smart Alarm System can help keep your child and family safe. The Smart Alarm System will notify you when your child arrives home from school, allows you to see what’s happening on your property and in your home at all times, and will automatically unlock and lock your doors when you or your child arrives home. Plus, the system is so easy to operate that even your kid can do it!

For more information on our Smart Alarm System, and to get a free quote, call us at 828.693.7136!