WORKPLACE SAFETY TIPS
You have a varied and unique workplace environment. Every day you are entering different neighborhoods in various cities and towns. You also are on the road during different weather conditions. It is important that you are aware of your environment in order to be safe.
You should also be aware pets, and look for any physical hazards at the home, such as broken stairs.
Follow these general precautions when conducting home visits so you will be prepared and able to protect your safety:
• Plan to arrive early enough to drive by a residence before you visit. This will give you an opportunity to observe the immediate area. This is especially helpful, when you are conducting your initial visit.
• When parking in a lot, be aware. Look to see if anyone is loitering. Look for the exits and back your car in when possible.
• When you approach the facility you are visiting listen carefully for any loud noises or inappropriate sounds coming from inside the home.
• Always introduce yourself and clearly state the nature of your business before entering the home.
• Have appropriate identification.
• Make sure someone knows when and where you are conducting home visits.
• Dress appropriate to for the weather conditions. High heels on a snowy day can cause a bad fall.
• Avoid areas that do not have sufficient lighting.
• Make sure you have good and accurate directions so you do not get lost.
• Do not approach or run from an unfamiliar dog.
• Always introduce yourself, show your identification and state your reason for visiting the home.
• After knocking or ringing the doorbell always step to the side. A swinging door can become a hazard and knock you over.
• Know when and how to conclude a visit when it becomes necessary to defuse a tense situation.
A top priority should be the safety of the children. If you observe broken boards in railings, stairs, or porches, peeling paint, icy walkways and stairs, fallen debris, overflowing trash or blocked exits, bring it to the provider’s attention immediately.
If you know a visit may be confrontational, watch for sign of aggressio, such as:
Provider’s voice becomes louder or higher pitched.
Aggressive stances such as crossed arms
Verbal abuse or swearing.
If you feel threatened, remove yourself from the situation.
There are obviously a differences between being uncomfortable and feeling endangered. You can try to deal with uncomfortable situations but you should remove yourself from dangerous ones and then immediately take appropriate action to protect the children that are in the home.