Keeping Kids from Getting Locked Out

Getting locked out of a house can be an inconvenience

for most anyone-however, for young children, it can be a particularly harrowing experience.

That’s why experts say it’s important to talk to kids about what to do if they accidentally get locked out of the house-before it actually happens. They offer these tips:

• Find A Friend — Children who are locked out should have a safe place to go. Talk to some trusted neighbors to see if your child can stay with them, if a situation occurs. Explain to your child exactly which neighbors he or she should go to.

• Know Who To Call — Be sure your child knows your work and cell phone numbers by heart. He or she should also know your full name, work address, or the address and name of a close friend or relative.

• Spare Keys — Try using a lockbox or hideaway key case to store a spare somewhere outside your home or one that can be shackled to a door knob or securely mounted to a home. The products are usually equipped with combination locks — the combination can be changed as often as you like-and they can be hidden and secured to almost any metal or plastic object. Children can also carry them attached to their schoolbags.