Safety tips for babysitters

As a babysitter, you are responsible for both the children and the property of your employer. Below are some tips to keep everyone safe.

When you arrive, ask for:

• the parents to help you complete a Babysitter emergency instruction sheet
• the address
• phone number where to contact your employer
• emergency numbers such as Poison Control and Health Link
• a tour of the house, taking mental note of two exits from each room
• how the door locks and window latches operate
• if the family has a fire escape plan and if the children have practiced it
• where the smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are, and if the children know what to do when they hear them

Once the parents leave:

• check all windows and doors are locked
• make sure the stove and oven are shut off
• look around the house and ensure there are no active sources of open flame, such as lit cigarettes or burning candles
• check for any objects lying around the residence that are unsafe and within the child’s reach
• cook only if you have permission and only if you can do it safely
• make sure you know what can and can’t be placed in a microwave (YES: paper, glass and microwave proof dishes. NO: metals and aluminium foil)
• do not open the door for anyone unless you know him or her. If someone insists on coming in and you do not recognize them call 911

If you notice a gas leak:

• do not turn on or off any lights or electrical appliances
• get out of the house
• call 911 from a safe place

If you notice smoke or fire:

• shout FIRE
• get the children. Do not waste time getting them dressed. Wrap them in a blanket, if possible
• get down close to the floor, where there will be fresh air, better visibility and less smoke
• close all doors as you leave
• if clothes catch on fire STOP, DROP & ROLL on the floor to smother the flames
• call 911 from a safe place
• never go back into a burning building