Considering the busy lives that most parents lead, leaving children in the care of others is a given.

To make sure the children are getting the best care, parents should seek sitters who are trained in basic first aid and CPR, specifically infant and child CPR, according to the American Safety & Health Institute.

Ralph M. Shenefelt, paramedic and general manager for the institute, says sitters should know where the house is in relation to certain landmarks; have updated emergency contact information; a list of the children’s allergies; and general home safety measures, such as the placement of exit doors, fire extinguishers or flashlights.

The institute also recommends the following baby sitter tips:

l Whenever caring for a child, the doors should always be locked. Even opening the door a little can allow a person to enter the home. Do not answer the door or reveal that there is no parent present.

l Always have two escape routes out of the house. This way, if one route is blocked due to the fire, you have an alternate route.