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You have left your children home with a babysitter. Will they know what to do in the event of an emergency? Babysitting is a great responsibility. The Sitter has been entrusted with the care of someone else's life. Emergencies are just that--emergencies. All that you would need to know for all types of emergencies cannot possibly be covered in this one message. However, we can identify some characteristics and guidelines to follow when caring for young children.
Never let strangers in the house.
Become familiar with the home.
What is the address?
What bedroom are the children sleeping in?
Are there working smoke detectors in the house?
Would you know the phone number if needed?
Where is the first aid kit?
Cooking guidelines:
Keep children and toys out of the kitchen.
Pot handles should be turned inwards.
Know where the children are when carrying hot objects from the stove to the table.
Keep a pot holder nearby to avoid burns.
Follow directions when using a microwave.
Swimming pools:
Are gates, doors and windows locked?
Remove chairs and tables that children could use to climb over the fence.
Do the children have permission to use the pool while their parents are gone?
If the phone/doorbell distracts you, make the child(ren) go with you.
No running, no pushing, no jumping, no diving.
What to do if an emergency occurs:
In the event of fire, help the children get out of the house and call 10177 (or your emergency number for your area) from a neighbours house.
Know the number for an accidental poisoning(normally your local hospital).
In the event of a power failure, know where the flashlights and spare batteries are.
Know how to reach the parents(cell number where possible).
Young children require constant supervision. Supervision is the key to avoid most emergencies. Develop a mental plan of "attack" when faced with an emergency or a unique situation. A babysitter must be able to react quickly and correctly in an emergency.
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Created on ... December 02, 2000