* Make sure your kids can reach you by telephone at work. Post your work number, along with numbers for a neighbor, the police and fire departments, and poison control center near all your home phones. * Have your children check in with you at work or with a neighbor when they get home. Agree on rules for having friends over and going to some- one else's house when no adult is present. * Work out an escape plan in case of fire. * Tell your children never to open the door to a stranger when they are alone in the house or apartment. Caution them about answering the phone and accidentally letting a stranger know they are alone. Kids can always say their parents are busy and take a message. * Make sure they know how to work the door and window locks and that they use them when they are inside alone.