1) Set
some rules. Sit down and tell the kids what the rules are.
Write them down. Then post the rules in plain view. Your kids
will be more aware, and that’s a good thing. If you
don’t want them near the gas stove, write it down. If
they need to leave the sharp kitchen knives alone, write it
down on the rules.
2) Talk to them. Sounds simple doesn’t it? Talk them
through the rules. And talk to them about personal security.
Remind them to lock the doors. Make sure they know not to
let anyone in when you’re not there, except people you
have already told them can come in.
3) Show them how to use 911. Make sure they understand when
to use it. And make sure they know it’s not a joke.
4) If you have firearms in the house, place them in a gun
safe. Not under a mattress, or in a cupboard. You have a legal,
ethical, and moral responsibility to secure your firearms.
The same applies to fireworks.
5) Give them emergency contact numbers. Friends or neighbors
who you trust to have good judgment if you aren’t available,
for when you can’t get home fast enough.
6) Make sure the kids understand Internet security too. You
aren’t there and you need to know what they’re
doing on their computers. Look into Internet Monitoring Software,
low-cost products that invisibly monitor the activities of
your kids, and privately emails you the results as often as
you like. The best of these software products track internet
sites visited, downloads, chat room conversations, and IM.
Steve
Cross, President of Guardian Software, is a columnist, author,
and is
the former President of family-friendly internet pioneer YourFreeStuff.com.
Steve wrote the book "Changing Channels", and was
a columnist for the Gartner Group's "Channel Media"
newsletters for years. Based in the Las Vegas area, he currently
writes about Las Vegas Real Estate, and Las Vegas Entertainment.
Before purchasing Guardian Software with a couple old friends,
he also had senior level executive positions with several
software companies. For more information, please visit www.GuardianSoftware.com.
