Safety instructions
Essential information
Emergency number: 112. Use the 112 Suomi app. It sends your exact location to the emergency services even elsewhere in Europe! The emergency number 112 is used in all EU countries and connects to the local emergency response center.
Employer family information: List the names of the parents and their phone numbers.
Local emergency contact: Ask the family for the contact details of a local trusted person (neighbor, relative, or friend). They can assist you if the parents are not reachable.
Allergies: Ask for detailed information regarding the children's allergies.
ICE contact information: Save the phone numbers of your loved ones in your phone under the ICE (In Case of Emergency) code.
Contact person: Give the employer family the name and phone number of one of your loved ones who speaks English.
Dining & kitchen
Sitting down: Eating only takes place at the table, never while running or playing.
Hot drinks: Keep coffee and tea out of children's reach. Never drink hot beverages while holding a child in your lap.
Allergies: Confirm all of the children's allergies with the parents! Always check every ingredient label. If you are even slightly unsure, take a photo of the label and send it to the parents. Confirm the product's safety—never assume!
EpiPen (Adrenaline auto-injector): Always know exactly where the child's EpiPen is stored. Always take it with you when going outdoors, to the park, or on trips. It is a lifesaver that must be immediately accessible.
Stove & appliances: Always ensure the stove is turned off after use. Turn pot handles inward (away from the edge) and unplug small electrical appliances when not in use.
Sharp kitchen tools: Keep scissors and sharp knives far from the edge of the counter and out of the child's reach—including when they are in the sink.
Home & environment
Small objects: Be extremely vigilant with small objects and toy parts. A good rule of thumb: If an object fits through an empty toilet paper roll, it is a choking hazard for a small child who puts everything in their mouth.
Button batteries: Ensure that spare batteries are stored away and that toys containing them are not broken or easily opened.
Cleaning supplies: Make sure cabinet child locks are engaged or that all cleaning agents are stored high up and out of reach.
Medication: Parents are responsible for the child's medication. If a caregiver administers any medicine, it must be agreed upon in advance, and a confirmation (e.g., via text message) must be sent to the parents immediately after. Always store medication in a high place or behind locks.
Outlets & stairs: Check child locks, outlet covers, and safety gates daily to ensure they are functioning correctly.
NOTE: Get down on your knees and look at the world from a child's perspective. What hazards do you see from there? Fix them im
Outdoors & traffic
Communication: Always inform the parents where you are going (e.g., which playground or walking route). This ensures they always know your location.
Daypack: Always carry water, a small snack, a fully charged phone, Band-Aids, and a change of clothes for the child.
Location: Download the 112 Suomi app on your phone. It sends your exact location to the emergency services even elsewhere in Europe!
Water safety: Always stay within arm's reach of a non-swimming child whenever you are near water.
Traffic: Always hold the child's hand when near roads, crossings, or in parking lots.
NOTE: Before heading out, check that hoodies and jackets do not have any dangerous drawstrings that could get caught.
Privacy & boundaries
Privacy & personal Space: You have the right to your own boundaries and privacy. Camera surveillance in the caregiver's bedroom or in bathrooms is strictly prohibited. You must always be informed in advance about any security cameras in common areas.
Social media: Do not post photos of the children or share your location on social media.
Rest & recovery: Remember to take care of your own well-being. A well-rested caregiver is a safe caregiver.
Insurance: Ensure that your travel insurance is valid. Remember to bring your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
SOS - In Case of Emergency
Stay calm: Take a deep breath. Remaining calm helps you think clearly.
Address immediate danger: Provide first aid or call 112 immediately!
Inform the parents: Tell them honestly what happened and how the situation was handled.
Contact person: Make sure you have given the family the contact information of one English-speaking relative for emergencies.
Privacy and media: If the media contacts you, dare to say NO. Your confidentiality and family privacy are paramount.
Discussion help: Discuss what happened only with your family or a professional who is bound by confidentiality (e.g. an online psychologist). Do not share information about the events with outsiders or on social media.