Young people taking the class at Pinckneyville Community Hospital learned how to prevent injuries and handle emergencies when home alone, watching younger siblings, or babysitting.

The nationally-recognized Safe Sitter program aims to reduce the number of avoidable and unintentional deaths among children being cared for by young teen caretakers. Injuries are the leading cause of death in children up to age 5.

Students who complete the course gain confidence and learn how, why, and where injuries can happen so they can be prevented. They are taught infant and child choking rescue and CPR. They also learn how a child’s age affects the care they receive, how to prevent problem behavior, how to run their own babysitting business, and issues in online and cellphone safety.

The program was developed by pediatrician Dr. Patricia Keener after a colleague’s toddler choked to death while in the care of an adult sitter who didn’t know what to do.

The recent course was led by Pinckneyville Community Hospital nursing staff members Denise Gielow, RN, Kelsey Priebe, RN, and Gloria Przygoda, FNP, AHEC Director. Course graduates received a completion card that demonstrates they know how to use their skills in situations they encounter.

A second Safe Sitter course has been scheduled at Pinckneyville Community Hospital for Saturday, July 9th. Learn more and register