Change the channel on anything too violent or spooky, or you may just end up scaring yourself. Getting absorbed in the voices and antics on the screen can keep you from feeling quite as isolated.

Use a gaming headset to talk to your friends while you play. It will be like having them there in the room with you. Staring at a screen for too long can be hard on your eyes. Take a break every now and then to have a snack or go on a walk through the house.

Prepare for your night at home by picking up some new books from the library.

Try not to play your music so loud that you can’t hear what’s going on around you. Throw your own private dance party. No one else is around, so you can be as silly as you want!

Answer incoming calls right away. It may be your parents trying to get in touch with you. If you’re allowed to use the internet, you could also chat with your friends online. Never talk to strangers over the phone or internet. [3] X Research source

Should you find yourself stuck, circle the problem and ask your parents or teacher about it the next time you have a chance. Be responsible and get your homework done before you begin enjoying other activities. That way, you’ll have more time to play later.

Leave a light on in the hallway if it makes you feel better. Don’t stay up too late or you’ll be tired the next morning.

Spending one night home alone isn’t so bad, but if they’re going to be gone for a few days, you may be better off staying with a friend or relative. Your parents might have special instructions or rules for you to follow, like what parts of the house are off-limits, when to go to bed and what you are and aren’t allowed to watch on TV. [7] X Research source

Leave the list on the kitchen counter, refrigerator or another place where you can easily find it. [9] X Research source If you have a smartphone, you can program these numbers into your contacts so you won’t have to refer to a physical list.

Never tell a stranger that you’re going to be home alone. [11] X Research source

Crackers, trail mix, peanut butter sandwiches and juice all make quick and easy snacks (no cleanup needed!). [13] X Research source Stick to cold or microwavable foods that won’t require you to use the oven or stovetop.

Don’t open the door for anyone you don’t know or leave the house under any circumstances, unless there’s a fire, break-in or another emergency. [15] X Research source Learn how to lock the door handle, deadbolt and chain if your doors have several different locks.

Learn how to place emergency calls on a smartphone—this is usually as simple as pressing a button. [17] X Expert Source Saul Jaeger, MSPolice Captain, Mountain View Police Department Expert Interview. 21 February 2020. Be able to recite your name, address and phone number in case you have to call 911.

Ask the person politely to call again or come back later. Unless you know who’s knocking, it may be safest not to answer the door. [19] X Research source

Keeping your house well-lit inside and out will also allow you to spot anyone who happens to be prowling around.

Test the flashlight to make sure the batteries work before you go off and forget about it. It’s also not a bad idea to have some extra batteries on hand, just in case. It’s unsafe to use candles or matches during a power outage. These can easily be dropped or knocked over, which could cause a fire.