The NSPCC is urging parents in the West Midlands to talk to their children before leaving them home alone.
The charity says nearly 500 referrals were made in the region over safety concerns.
It recommends under-12s are never left alone and highlights a spike in summer cases.
The NSPCC stresses the importance of listening to children's worries and preparing them for what to do if something unexpected happens.
Prolific shoplifter jailed and banned from stores in Monmouth
A prolific shoplifter has been jailed for theft and barred from stores in Monmouth after being issued with a two-year criminal behaviour order (CBO).
Appeal to locate Herefordshire man who failed to appear at court
Gwent Police are appealing for information to find 35-year-old Michael Hitchings from Herefordshire.
Supported accommodation for care leavers to open in Abergavenny
A council is still searching for one more property to complete the first stage of opening its own homes for children in and leaving care.
Sunny intervals
High: 15°C | Low: 7°C
Sunny intervals
High: 15°C | Low: 7°C
Sunny intervals
High: 16°C | Low: 7°C