D RIV ING DO’s AND DO N’ T s TIPS TO GET YOU SAFE L Y T O W ORK AND BA C K AGAIN On-the-job safety doesn’t begin just when you enter a client’s home. Safe habits should be practiced when traveling to and from your work locations, too. There are lots of simple, but important, things you can do to help remain safe when you’re behind the wheel. Always be prepared before going out on an assignment, be sure wear your seat belt, follow speed limits and all road signs, use extreme caution at intersections, and be alert when parking and exiting your vehicle. Always be aware of what other drivers around you are doing and keep safe distance between you and the car in front of you. Here are some other helpful safety tips: Before you go out on an assignment: • Have detailed directions to your client’s home. • L earn about the area and what precautions you should take. • Leave valuables at home or locked in your trunk. • Keep car in good working condition and gas tank full. • A llow plenty of travel time so you are not in a rush; do not take any unnecessary risks. • Y ou may request an escort to accompany you to the client’ home if you feel your personal safety is endangered. To avoid distractions while driving, do not: • T ake your eyes off the road or hands off the steering wheel. • T alk (unless you have hands-free talking) or text on your cell phone. • Access other electronic devices such as tablets • Eat or drink • Read
Parking your vehicle: • Park close by in a highly visible and well-lit area. • Avoid parking next to anything that could conceal your view. • C heck your surroundings before unlocking your door and exiting your vehicle. • K eep equipment, supplies, and personal belongings locked out of sight in the trunk of the vehicle. • K eep windows up and doors locked, even if approached by a stranger. Returning to your vehicle: • S tay alert and walk briskly with your head up and shoulders back. • Walk in populated and well-lit areas. • Carry your keys in your hand at all times and if possible carry a whistle, flashlight, or other personal alarm. • N ote occupied vehicles around you and check your front and rear seats before entering. • W hen approached by a stranger, be sure to keep a safe distance.
Remember, your personal safety is more valuable than your belongings. If you feel endangered, you should never do anything to risk physical harm. Your safety is of the utmost importance to BAYADA. Report any incidents immediately to your office and provide your supervisor or director with all details.
bayada.com/love BAYADA specialty practices include Home Health Care, Pediatrics, Hospice, and Habilitation.
