Secure Your Home Before Leaving a Child Alone

A child left alone at home — even for the few minutes it takes to visit a next-door neighbour — is a target if the home is not fully secured. In a May 2026 incident in Malabar, a masked intruder forced entry into a home on Tirite Lane while the mother was briefly at a neighbour’s house, grabbed at the 10-year-old girl inside, and fled only because her screams brought the mother and neighbour running. The window of opportunity was short, but the absence of a locked door was all the intruder needed. An unsecured door signals to anyone watching that an adult has temporarily left the building.

Steps to follow:

• Lock every external door — including back and side doors — before leaving the premises, even if you are only stepping next door for a few minutes.
• Teach your child never to open the door to anyone while alone, no matter who is asking or what reason is given.
• Instruct your child to scream loudly and continuously if anyone forces or attempts to force entry — noise is a primary deterrent and alerts neighbours.
• Ensure your child has your number saved and knows to call you immediately if they feel unsafe; keep your phone with you and on while away.
• If possible, bring the child with you rather than leaving them home alone, even for a brief visit nearby.
• Consider a secondary door latch or chain at a height the child can engage from the inside to add a layer of resistance against forced entry.