BABYSITTER SAFETY

ANSWERING THE PHONE

Always discuss the parents’ wishes prior to their leaving. Some parents may prefer to let the telephone record any messages. However, if you answer the phone, follow these simple safety guidelines.

You say:Hello?

They say: Who is this?

How do you respond?

They ask: May I speak

to Mr. Jones?

How do you respond?

They are a telemarketer

What do you say and do?

How can you be prepared in case of

an emergency?

1.Keep a list of important phone numbers handy to save precious minutes.

2. If the phone is portable or a cell phone, keep it turned on, charged and nearby.

Other information

Don’t give out any information unless you know the person calling.

Do not take or make personal calls unless they are specifically related to the job.

Always be courteous.

ANSWERING THE DOOR

Have a plan for how to handle this.

A discussion with the parents is critical so you know exactly who and what to expect whenever possible.

1. Always keep doors and windows locked and make sure the parents show you how the locks work before they leave.

2. Turn off unnecessary lights inside, and turn on outside lights. Do you know why?

3. If possible, look out the window or door before answering.

4. If it is a service person, through the door, tell him/her to call tomorrow to reschedule.

5. If it is a stranger, DO NOT ANSWER THE DOOR. If he/she becomes persistent and does not go away, call the police or nearest neighbor for assistance.

6. If there is any suspicious activity (knocking at the door and no one is there, or if you suspect a prowler or prank) call police or neighbors for assistance.

PERSONAL SAFETY

What to do…

1. If you become

ill…Call your family or the parents you are sitting for to discuss a replacement.

2. If you become concerned because

the parents are late returning…Call your

parent or trusted adult for support and advice.

3. If the parent returns under the

influence of drugs or alcohol…

Do not go in a car with him/her. Use your “codeword” and call home for a ride.

4. If you must attend to an emergency…

Make sure thechild is safe first. Itis okay if she/he cries. It is more important they are safe.

5. If you are injured while babysitting…

Put the child in a safe location then treat your injury.

6. In any situation try to remain as calm as

possible…

Young children are easily frightenedif they see adults or teenagers panicking.

7. It is ALWAYS okay to call for help…

If you are unsure how to handle a situation.

8. Review anything that happened while you were

babysitting when the parent

returns…Communication is the key to a successful relationship with the family. Making a sitter checklist is a good idea.