Home alone in spotlight

As the number of working parents rises, families face the tough discussion of what age they should leave their children home alone.

Although there is not an age recommendation, Kidsafe Great Southern manager Tracy Blaszkow said parents should consider several factors.

“There is no specific law in WA recommending the age children can be left home alone,” she said.

“This decision can only be made by parents and carers and where they feel comfortable.

“This decision should be made dependent on the maturity of the child or children in question.”

Ms Blaszkow said if parents did leave their children at home alone, emergency numbers and options should be made easily available.

“Ensure all hazards are eliminated from the home environment and that the children have a list of emergency numbers at hand if needed, such as 000 for a medical emergency, 131 126 for the WA Poisons Hotline, mum and dad’s mobile number and that of a close neighbour,” she said.

“It’s often a good idea to ask the next-door neighbour if they can check on them while you are away from the house, or check in with them via phone if you can.”

Under the 1913 Criminal Code Act, parents or guardians can be charged with an offence if they neglect their child and do not provide the necessities of life for their child under 16.