Safety Tips for Babysitters
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It is extremely important that you take your sitting job very seriously and make a conscientious attempt to take the best care of a family's most important possession, their children.
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Do not look upon your babysitting time as leisure time for you to invite your friends over or to be constantly on the phone such that the children are left unattended.
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Remember that your first responsibility is to the children you are caring for.
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Lock all the doors when the parents leave.
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Watch the children carefully and keep them away from dangerous objects or chemicals to avoid household accidents.
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Do not permit your friends or guests to visit without permission.
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Do not leave the children alone in the house at any time.
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When the children go to bed they should be checked regularly.
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Stay awake while babysitting.
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If the telephone rings, do not tell the caller that the children are alone with a babysitter. Ask the caller to leave a message.
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Never allow a stranger into the house.
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Do not open the door to anyone unless the parents have given prior permission. Ask to take a message.
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If the children are taken outside in the yard, they must be watched carefully. The parent will let the sitter know who their children may play with or visit.
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If you take the children to a public place watch them carefully and do not allow them to wander. Make sure all the windows and doors are locked before you leave on your outing.
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When you return, if something seems suspicious (broken window or door open) call the police immediately from someone else's house.
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Arrange transportation to and from your babysitting assignment.
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Do not take a ride home from someone who appears to be under the influence of alcohol.