Safety for the Sitter

Safety For The Sitter
(Frequently Asked Questions

What would you do if you were babysitting and you got hurt and couldn't reach the phone?

This is truly a babysitter's worst nightmare. If you are hurt and the children are too young to help you, you are going to have to use your head to figure out a way to get help. You'll think better if you stay calm. Take care of your injury first. Stop any bleeding and try to get as pain-free as possible, Then be creative about getting help.

Drag yourself to the phone or consider the possibility of the child bringing the phone to you.
Call your employer immediately so they can come home. If necessary, have your own parents relieve you until the children's parents arrive.
Flash any light available. Turn the room light off and on.
Call out from a window.
Don't feel sorry for yourself. Keep the children with you. You will need to entertain the children at your side until the parent arrives home. Be brave and provide comfort to the children. Stay as warm and comfortable as possible.

Q	I babysit for a family that has a large dog. Even though they claim it's harmless, I am concerned for the children's safety. When they put it in the basement all it does all night is cry loudly. What should I do?
A	Sitters should never assume a family pet is safe. Family pets or pets of neighbors cause the majority of dog bites in children. You can do your part to keep the children safe by following these rules:
	Children should never be left in a room alone with a dog.
	Children should be kept away from eating or sleeping dogs.
	Children should not be allowed to tease or hurt dogs.
	Don't allow toddlers to play close to a dog since they fall easily and might fall on top of the dog accidentally-even gentle dogs snap when they have been startled or hurt.
	Don't babysit for a family whose dog scares you.

Safe Sitter® is a nonprofit, 501 (c)(3) organization. Copyright © 2008 by Safe Sitter, Inc. All Rights Reserved. This page was last updated 01/10/08