Be A Safe Babysitter

Caring for young children is a big job. A babysitter must be able to react quickly and correctly in case of an emergency. Important Information A babysitter must be certain of important information before the parents leave: > How many children will be watched? > Where are the parents going and when will they return? > Is there a phone number where parents, a relative and/or a neighbor can be reached in case of an emergency? > Do the children have special food or medicine needs? > What time is bedtime? > Where is a flashlight in case of a power failure? Parent Responsibilities Have and post important information: > Address > Health insurance > Emergency numbers (9-1-1, poison control) > Child's information (name, date of birth, medical conditions, medications/dosage, allergies) > Have your home address clearly visible from the street and posted near the phone. Post the Home Escape Plan The babysitter should know this safety information: > If caring for infants or physically challenged children, consider how to get them out of the house in case of fire. > Be sure the home has a working smoke alarm. > Know CPR. Attend a childcare program. > If meals are to be cooked, remember kitchen safety rules. > In an emergency, call 9-1-1. Things To Remember > If the home has a swimming pool, be sure all gates, access doors, doggy doors and windows are closed and locked. > A baby sitter should NOT talk on the phone when taking care of children (unless there is an emergency). > Don't open the door to strangers, even if they claim to be friends or neighbors of the family, unless parents gave prior authorization. > Keep doors and windows locked. > Never leave a child unattended when in a bathtub. > Close and/or lock bathroom doors when not in use. > Remember, Children need to be watched at all times!