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Are you a nanny who wants to brush up on their home safety basics?
Then this practical (and free!) course is for you! It covers questions you should ask parents, hazards around the home and how to prevent accidents from happening as best you can.
Complete these four modules and take the short test at the end to see how you stack up.
Disclaimer: This is NOT a first aid course or a first aid course substitute.
Module 1 - Location Location Location
There are lots of different things that you need to know the location of from the first day you start your new job.
The Boiler
Make sure to ask parents where in the home the boiler is located. Although things don’t often go wrong, it is really important that you know where the boiler is, just in case. You should also get the parents to show you how to operate it in case you need it!
Boilers are typically located in bathrooms, lofts or utility rooms but double check this.
Electrical Trips
We’ve all been there. Whether mid blow dry or watching TV and… CLICK. The electricity has tripped. Now, if you don’t know the location of the trip box this can be a real pain and also a health and safety nightmare as you don’t want to be caring for children in a dark house.
These are often located in a box close to the front door, but again, check with the parents.
First Aid Kit
Some children will have allergies, in which case you should definitely know where to find any medication that they require. It is also important to know where all the general first aid equipment is stashed. If a child does fall over and graze their knee you will need to find the plasters. They may also require medication if they are sick. However, always be sure to check with the parents first what medicine they are comfortable giving their child. All medication, whether it be yours or the child’s, must be stored away safely.
One other key thing to ask parents for is how to contact them in an emergency. You may have their mobile numbers but it is also good to get another number that you can contact them on while at work. Additionally, make sure you have at least one other emergency contact that you can call if neither parent is answering their phone. You will also need the contact details of their GP or paediatrician.
Module 2 - In the Kitchen
Kitchens are full of fun, but also contain all kinds of hazards for children to run into. Kids are curious, and while we want to encourage curiosity, it needs to be done in a safe environment. Sharp objects, strong chemicals and hot water are all potential dangers. It is your job to make sure that everything is arranged in a child friendly way.
When cooking with pans on a hob, or boiling water in a kettle, make sure that they are placed well out of the reach of children. Pan handles should never hang off the edge - always turn them inwards. Intrigued children can grab them and adults can bump into them, both potentially ending very badly. The same goes for kettles - kettles and their wires should be tucked out of reach of wandering hands. When using a knife, make sure that once you have finished you never leave it unattended within the reach of a child. Once used, wash it up and place it in a secure drawer or block, out of reach of children. Never leave them in a sink full of water either, someone could put their hand in unknowingly and cut themselves.
If there are any spillages, clean them up straight away to avoid any slipping. If you need to use cleaning supplies to sort out a spillage, never leave them unattended - even if closed. Although most strong chemicals have childproof lids, you can never be too cautious. Once used, return to a safe and out of reach place straight away.
Now watch this video for more potential kitchen nightmares!
Module 3 - In the Bathroom
Bath time isn’t just about getting clean - it is also a chance for children to play and unwind before bed. However, you need to be very careful when it comes to safety.
Before you start, make sure everything you'll need is prepared. For example: soap, a towel and a change of clothes. This means that all your attention can be focused on the child(ren) and you never have to leave them alone. And you must NEVER leave them alone in the bath, no matter how shallow the water is. A person can drown in just an inch of water.
Mix the water well, making sure it is an evenly warm temperature and place a non skid mat in the bath to prevent any slipping. Once the bath is run, check the temperature yourself before you allow the child(ren) to get in. You can check the temperature using your elbow or a thermometer (it should be about 37°C - 38°C - i.e. body temperature).
Once you are finished, empty the tub immediately and make sure the floor is dry.
Module 4 - In the Bedroom
Bedroom furniture and large plants can be a real hazard if you are not careful. A child might pull on the leaves of a big plant only to have it topple onto them, or climb up a chest of drawers which then comes crashing down on top of them. While most parents secure them to the wall, you can never be too careful. Do not leave a young child alone in a room. They see the whole world as a playground and might hoist themselves up to reach their favourite toy, trip over a protruding edge or shut their hand in a wardrobe door.
Watch this video to see how easy it is for accidents like this to occur.
When it is time for bed, if the child is a small baby, make sure that their cot is free from clutter before you lay them down. Toys and any other extras can be a serious suffocation hazard for small babies. Never use a pillow if the baby is under 12 months for the same reason.
Congratulations, you've completed the course! Now, let's test your knowledge...
Good luck! And if you pass, we'll be sending you a certificate!
Tamarins are monkeys who parent in family groups – like a village – helping each other while children are small.
Are you ready to join our village?
Parents sign up here to begin your nanny search.
Nannies sign up here to find your next family. Alternatively, you can send your CV to hello@mytamarin.com and we will be in touch!
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