Sheriff Fontoura Recommends Tips for Babysitters
When babysitting, you are entrusted with a child’s life and your responsibilities are the needs of the children and their safety.
- Prior to starting your babysitting job, prepare a written list that includes the family name, the children’s names, house address, and telephone numbers on where to contact the parents, closest relatives and neighbors and family doctor.
- In the event of an emergency, CALL 911.
- Identify yourself by name, tell the police where you are and tell them about your problem.
- Make a plan on how to get everyone out of the house or apartment in case of fire.
- Make sure all doors and windows are locked from the inside after the parents leave.
- If it is evening, turn on the porch or outside light.
- If the children are asleep, check on them every 15 minutes.
- If the children are awake, know their location at all times.
- If for any reason you must leave the house, TAKE THE CHILDREN WITH YOU!
- Do NOT open the door for anyone unless you personally know the person.
- If someone who you do not know insists upon entering the house or if you suspect a prowler, CALL 911.
