Mesa County Does Not Have An Age Guideline For Leaving Children Alone

At what age can you legally leave your children alone, in Mesa County? Well, that's not a question that I can directly answer. The reasoning is, there really isn't a hard set rule on the matter.

The State of Colorado has a general guideline that states that around the age of 12, children should be able to take care of themselves for a small amount of time. However, in Mesa County, and all of Colorado, the emphasis is strongly placed at the parent's discretion.

“You should know your child and that's one of the biggest things and to know their maturity level,” says Angeline Roles of the Mesa County Department of Human Services.

So, basically if you feel your child is old enough to take care of themselves alone, for a short period of time, that is on you. If something should happen to them while you're away, however, you would still be held legally accountable.

I would say it's best to really know your child and their maturity level. As well as how safe the area you are leaving them is, and the length of time you're planning on being gone. If there are several adults, (2 or more) perhaps leave a cell phone with them so they can reach you if needed.

Do you think there needs to be a hard fast ruling on this matter?

[KKCO]