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Being a single parent is one of the hardest jobs in the world. Parenting holds enough of its own challenges without the added stress of being the sole provider of encouragement, discipline, food, fun and clean clothes! Planning to keep your home and family protected may seem like just another "to do" on your list. Many single parents think, "I have a home alarm system, what else do I need?"

A little pre-planning can help you overcome a situation that might otherwise turn into an emergency. With just a few simple tips that work in addition to security alarm systems, single parents can quickly help alleviate worry and instill a greater sense of safety without spending a ton of money.

Securing Your Home

An FBI study shows burglars enter your home through:

' the front door, 34% of the time

' a first-floor window, 23% of the time

' the back door, 22% of the time

Other entry points (such as a garage door, basement door or second-floor window) receive minimal forced entry attempts. This means your primary attention needs to focus on these three targets.

Those with a home alarm system almost always have their doors connected to the appropriate sensors by default. Windows, however, are sometimes overlooked. If you haven't had your windows linked to your security alarm system, contact the company today and have it done.

Also, pay attention to what type and style of door you use. Steel doors are more secure than wooden doors. Make sure doors with large windows are equipped with shatterproof glass. Most manufacturers today are required to use this special glass, but older doors may still contain windows that can be easily broken. Also use deadbolt locks that open and close with a key on the inside and outside. Get into the habit of locking the deadbolts whenever you leave and at night when you sleep.

Protecting Your Kids

As a single parent, there is simply no way you can keep your kids within eyesight at all times. The next best thing is to make sure you've done all you can to ensure their safety when you're not at home. Education is the best - and least expensive - preventative for disaster.

Choose a secret password that only you and your kids know. This way, your children will know without a doubt they can trust any adult who tells them the correct password. Teach your children (no matter what age) never to open doors for strangers unless they give the password, regardless of what the stranger might say.

Train your kids about the proper use of your home alarm system and how and when to phone 911. They should know where the pass code for your system is and they should also know how to activate the alarm in the event they need help. Additionally, children should be instructed on when to call 911 and what to expect when they phone.

Reducing Insurance Rates

Most insurance companies now offer discounts on policies for homes that use security alarm systems. Some companies have stipulations about how the system is connected, whether it is used in conjunction with a monitoring service, etc. Check with your insurance agent to find out if you're receiving all applicable discounts for the use of your fire and burglar alarms.

With work, school, cooking, cleaning and spending time with your kids, you already have your hands full. Emergencies are one thing you certainly don't need to add to that list. By implementing these simple tips, you can help alleviate a little stress from your life while, at the same time, guarding your children and your home against harm.