Baby Safety Answers!

 

Q: "What information should I leave with a babysitter to handle an emergency," asks a new mom?

A: Leave phone numbers where you can be reached, and at least two neighbors, family members or friends who could be at your home if there is a problem—until you can return home.

Information a babysitter needs to handle an emergency: Explain how you want a medical or household emergency to be handled.
• Where a parent can be reached. Names and phone numbers of at least two neighbors, family members or friends who could be at your home – if there is problem – until you can return home.
• Instructions and information about your baby (allergies, medication your baby takes regularly.)
• If your baby has a medical condition, caregivers need to know the warning signs that mean immediate medical care are needed.
• Instructions about your home (location of security system, thermostats, circuit breakers and other equipment or appliances that may not be easy to use.
• The location of fire extinguishers – when and when NOT to use it.
• If it is necessary to call 9-1-1, and the person calling finds it difficult to communicate because English is a second language, they may request a translator.
• Create a fire escape plan and review this with babysitters. Baby-Everywhere products have a sample with instructions and a blank grid to create a fire escape plan for your family.

The Information Station is designed to help
the babysitter in an emergency.