Guest Post from socialmonsters.org:
Keeping kids safe is a top priority, but in many cases it seems like today’s kids are growing up in a different world than their parents, and keeping them safe can be a challenge. But it’s possible to increase the safety factor of your own neighborhood, and reduce the chances that your kids will face an unfortunate or uncomfortable experience.
Looking for the Right Neighborhood
While there’s no such thing as a risk-free neighborhood, there are many things you can look for that are signs that you can trust the area you’re in. According to the American Planning Association, there are several signs to keep an eye out for when choosing a neighborhood to live in. Various modes of transportation are supported, including walking, biking and driving. It takes pride in its natural and architectural features and promotes community involvement through social activities.
Making the Best of the Neighborhood
Of course, if you’re already in your neighborhood and it isn’t quite what you want it to be, you may simply need to make the best of what you have. How you act within your neighborhood, can play a big role in how protected your kids are near your home. Child Quest International offers various suggestions on how to help keep your kids safe. Making investments of both time and money shows that you’re looking to make your neighborhood better.
Another way to improve your neighborhood is take the time to show you care. By walking with your kids, you’re able to reinforce good habits such as looking both ways before they cross the street. The time spent with your kids presents a good time to talk and connect with your kids in a way that isn’t always easy when you get too busy. While you’re out and about you’re more likely to meet some of your neighbors who are out and about, as well. Maybe they are with their own kids, or walking the dog, or even heading to the curb to pick up the mail. Every interaction strengthens community ties.
Keep up-to-date with your neighborhood watch group, which is another good way to maximize neighborhood safety. These programs go beyond just looking out for one another. They encourage investments such as street lamps and security cameras that make break-ins more challenging for would-be criminals. If you can’t find an existing neighborhood watch, take the time to start one yourself.
Your Most Immediate Neighborhood
Your most immediate neighborhood, of course, is your own home. No matter what is going on outside, it’s up to you to keep tabs on the inside. But you can’t always be there, and even when you are you can’t watch every corner of the house. For this reason, you may want to look into a home automation and security system. Some monitoring packages offer protection for the whole house, including fire and flood detection as well as break-ins and carbon monoxide leaks, according to www.securitycompanies.com.
Don’t be a Stranger
According to the National Crime Prevention Council it’s important not only to keep a connection with your neighbors, but also to be attentive to your children and teach them strategies for keeping themselves safe. Children should be taught always to communicate where they are. They should tell you when they leave the house, where they are going, and when you can expect them to come home. Be clear about places where they aren’t allowed, such as alleys or on the other side of a busy highway.
Take time to meet and get to know the friends of your children as well as their parents and keep a list of their phone numbers. This will help you act fast if there is ever a problem. Make sure your children, and any adults supervising them, are able to reach you. Make sure they know your cell number and your work line, as well as their own number and address. Write this information down and have your child carry it with them so they can always provide that information to anyone who might need it.
You can also help your children identify safe places. Find a neighbor you trust that can be available to your kids in case of an emergency.
