Emergency situations
A sudden event or situation that requires an immediate response can be really scary. In emergencies people can panic or feel confused. The best way to make sure emergency situations are handled as well as possible is to plan, prepare and practise for them.
In a child care centre, the adults have to be able to ensure their own safety and that of the children in their care. While older children may be able to follow verbal instructions and remove themselves from the danger, babies and toddlers will obviously need a much higher level of support from staff. All child care centres must have a comprehensive and well-practised plan in place to deal with emergencies. As a child care worker you will need to be very familiar with the emergency plans in your workplace.
Try the Evacuation activity below and see if you can beat the clock. You'll need to read the Evacuation procedure first to know what to do, just like in real life.
Remember, this procedure will vary depending on where it takes place and who needs to be evacuated. Each child care service will have its own procedure and you will have a specific role to play in it.
When you have successfully dealt with this emergency, think about what would be different if it took place at Cybertots when the children were present, rather than at the evening staff meeting. In your notebook, list at least 3 additional steps you may have to take to evacuate Cybertots during the day.
Safety exam
Your final task involves undertaking an online safety exam, provided by the WA Department of Commerce WorkSafe SmartMove program. The exam has two parts.
First you will cover general information in a module relating to workplace safety, and undertake a 'self assessment' exercise at the end.
Then, complete the 'Health and Community Services' industry module. This covers safety issues that are more relevant to your work in the child care industry. At the end of this module, you will complete another 'self assessment' exercise and receive a certificate.
Go to www.commerce.wa.gov.au/WorkSafe/ . Then click on SmartMove in the Education resources. Choose 'general modules' and follow the instructions.
When you have completed the general modules, go back to www.commerce.wa.gov.au/WorkSafe/ , click on SmartMove in the Education resources. Choose 'industry modules' then 'health and community services' and follow the instructions. (The sections in this module all have to be completed in the same session, so allow yourself plenty of time when you start it).
When you have successfully completed both of the modules, you will be presented with a certificate that will be a great addition to your resumé.
To make sure you have completed all the activities for this section, you can use the Activity Checklist (Word 79Kb). You can print the checklist to keep in your notebook.
