Sheriff Amerson Talks Back to School Safety

Calhoun County Sheriff Larry Amerson is back with the third installment of his conversation with TV24 about back to school safety. Today, he tackles the issue of how parents should handle kids who may have to go home alone after school. Sheriff Amerson urges parents to set parameters for after school activities.

The National SAFEKIDS Campaign recommends that no child under the age of 12 be left at home alone. However, they say consider a child's age and maturity level. For example, if a child is extremely impulsive, it might be best to wait until he or she is older than 12. Since the number of latchkey kids is growing significantly due to 2 income parents and single parents and guardians, there is a growing movement within state agencies to set guidelines. Alabama does not have an age restriction. However, if you need to know more information regarding latchkey kids, reference Alabama Babysitting Laws.