Keeping Kids From Getting Locked Out (NAPSA)—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 whatto 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. It’s a good idea to make prearrangements with a few sets of neighbors in case one set is not home when your child needs them. 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 nameofa close friend or relative. That way, he or she will know who to call should they find themselves in a predicament. Spare Keys—Try using a lockbox or hideawaykey case to store a spare somewhere outside your home. For instance, Target sells key storage devices made by GE called AccessPoint. The products ‘ If you hide a spare key outside your home, experts suggest using a lockbox. 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. The company also makes metal lockboxes that can be shackled to a door knob or securely mountedto a home. If you use the keyboxes, be sure your child knows where they are hidden and that he or she shouldn't share that information (or the combination) with anyone without your permission. For more information, visit the Web site www.ge-accesspoint.com.
