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Burn Prevention Tips for Babysitters
The Grossman Burn Center
(En Español) |
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Babysitting is an important job, and one that shouldn't be taken lightly. Please read the following tips so you'll know how to keep everyone safe from burns when you're babysitting:
Before the parents leave, write down the following information on a piece of paper and put it in your pocket or sock (in case there's a fire and you have to leave the house quickly):
- Telephone number where you can reach the parents
- Telephone number and address of a neighbor
- Address of the house where you are babysitting, including names of major cross streets.
When Preparing Meals:
- REMEMBER, young children are active and serving hot food or drinks can result in accidents.
- NEVER allow children to stand on a chair and help you cook. They could fall onto the hot stove.
- ALWAYS turn pot handles toward the BACK of the stove. Children may grab them and spill hot food onto themselves.
- If something on the stove catches fire, DON'T try to pick up the pan and move it. DO put the lid on the pot to smother the flames.
- If you're cooking with grease, DO keep a box of baking soda handy. Baking soda will safely put out a grease fire. DON'T use water - Water will only spread the flames!
- NEVER pass hot food or drinks over children. You may accidentally spill something or a child may reach up and knock it from your hands.
- NEVER leave hot drinks like cocoa or tea within reach of small children. They may try to copy you and drink from the cup!
- ALWAYS follow package directions closely when preparing food in a microwave, then test the temperature before serving.
If You're Bathing Children:
- NEVER allow children to run their own bath water. Run it for them to make sure it's not too hot!
- Test the water temperature with your hand or a bath thermometer BEFORE letting thechild get in the tub. If the water feels too hot, add cold water and mix well, then retest the temperature.
- NEVER leave a small child alone in the tub! He or she could turn on the hot water and get burned.
If a Fire Breaks Out:
- STAY CALM. You are in charge and need to think clearly in order to help the children.
- GET THE CHILDREN OUT OF THE HOUSE IMMEDIATELY! Don't try to fight the fire.
- Close the door as you leave, and take the children to a neighbor's house. Then call the fire department and parents.
Also see:
1. Food and beverage related scalds
2. Tap water scalds
3. Microwave scald prevention
4. Other causes of scald - prevention and pointers
Special gratitude given to:
for providing this information!
The Grossman Burn Center
4929 Van Nuys Boulevard
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
818-907-4580
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