Safety and Security for Babysitters

Mar 14 / Dan Keller

Safety and security are paramount for babysitters, as they play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of the children under their care. Babysitters are entrusted with the responsibility of maintaining a secure environment, both physically and emotionally, for the young ones. This includes being vigilant about potential hazards, such as sharp objects, electrical outlets, or household chemicals. Knowledge of emergency procedures, first aid, and basic self-defense can further enhance a babysitter's ability to handle unexpected situations. By prioritizing safety and security, babysitters not only provide peace of mind to parents but also create a positive and protective space for the children they watch over, and themselves, promoting a sense of trust and well-being within the family.

As a babysitter, you are counted on to be prepared and know what to do in different situations. The most important part of babysitting is keeping the children, and yourself, safe. Being a good babysitter means knowing how to handle everything from a splinter to a real emergency. These safety tips can help you be prepared before, during and after your babysitting job.

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Accepting the Job

You’re in business for yourself so be ready to tell your employer:

Days and hours you are available
Pay you expect
Transportation needs or expectations
Experience you’ve had and provide references if requested

Know Your Employer

If unfamiliar to you, ask who recommended you and check it out before accepting the job. If in doubt, ask your parents. Do not advertise for babysitting jobs outside of your trusted community, such as supermarkets, drug stores or laundromats.

Be Informed

Obtain the parents’ name, address, and telephone number; number of children you will be sitting and their ages. Understand the transportation to and from the job and the hours you are expected to work.
Always let your own parents/guardian know where you are going, how long you will be, and the employing parent's name and address of the babysitting job. Keep in contact with them if anything changes throughout the evening.

When You Arrive

Have the employing parents show you all the doors and windows and how to operate any locks or alarms you are unfamiliar with.
Find out where first aid supplies, clean clothing, fire extinguishers are located.
Obtain any special instructions (children’s snacks, bedtime, medical needs, use of TV, etc.)
Ask for instructions for pets, if applicable
Ask for emergency contact information for a nearby family member or friend
Obtain numbers for poison control, the nearest hospital, and family doctor.
Ensure you have the necessary supplies and instructions for bad weather, power outages, and house fires.
Ensure you have the parent(s) contact information for the evening.

On Your Own

Check all the doors and windows after parents leave. Make sure they are closed and locked.
Keep a constant watch on children to avoid any accidents.
If you hear any suspicious noises, check them out by turning on the outside lights. Do not go outside. If you suspect someone is there, call the police immediately by dialing 911.
If you receive unusual or obscene telephone calls, do not let the caller know you are alone. Hang up and call the police.
Never open the door for strangers. If someone comes to the door requesting use of the phone, do not let them in the house. Make the call for them. If they attempt to enter, call the police by dialing 911.
Keep window coverings closed and leave the exterior and interior lights on.
Never leave a child unattended - even for one second – especially in the kitchen, bathroom or around water.

In Case of Fire

In case of fire, get the children out of the house first, then call 911 from a neighbor’s home.

When Parents Return

Report any usual happenings to the parents. Make certain you are escorted home by an adult if you are not being picked up or driving yourself. If your employer appears intoxicated, insist that someone else take you home or call your parents.

Become a Certified Babysitter

Employers will give preference to babysitters with CPR and/or First Aid certification. The Red Cross offers babysitter certification courses where you can learn CPR, First Aid, and additional safety measures. Google search for a local chapter training course, or another local babysitter certification course near you, such as a hospital or community center.

There are also many helpful websites for babysitters such as Safe Sitter, American Red Cross and Care.com, among others.

*Information shared by the Mesa Police Department, Mesa, Arizona

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