1. Home Visitor Safety
Deb Palmer

2. Training objectives Participants will identify and understand…
Importance of maintaining a safe environment for working in homes and the community
Potentially unsafe environments
Strategies to ensure personal safety as well as safety of co-workers and families being served

3. Prior to the home visit
Determine risk factors for family or environment
Review records, inquire with other involved programs/partners if a question of safety is indicated
Call to confirm parent is still expecting your visit prior to leaving the office, ask them to secure any pets/animals. Notify families if you are not able to keep the scheduled appointment or someone other than who you have indicated will be attending the visit with you or in your place.
Based on the area, schedule visits to take place during the safest part of the day; avoid visits after dark unless approved by your supervisor.

4. Prior to the home visit cont.
Be sure co-workers have the demographics of the family you will be visiting. Make co-workers aware of the time to expect you to return to the office.
Bring a cell phone with 911 on speed dial.
Always wear some kind of identification: name tag, photo id badge.
Wear comfortable clothing which will allow you to move quickly.

5. Arriving at the home visit location
Back into the parking area; aim vehicle in “drive out” direction
Take a moment to assess your surroundings; look for animals which may be loose, persons who may be intoxicated, etc.
Lock your vehicle
Keep your car key separate from other keys on a key chain
Be aware of the smells associated with substance abuse
Stand to the side of the door when knocking
Do not enter the home if you see or sense something is not right

6. Arriving at the home visit location
Ask to speak to the client before entering the home if she/he is not the one who opens the door
Stay near the door; position yourself between the client and the door
Limit the amount of personal information you share
Do not accept food or beverages
Take a “fake call” if you sense danger, excuse yourself stating you are needed back at the office immediately
Leave immediately if you feel unsafe
Have keys and phone handy, easy to access, out of quick reach of client

7. Arriving at the home visit location
LISTEN TO YOUR INSTINCTS!

8. Initial assessment
When at all possible, staff should determine safety and appropriateness of services by inquiring about the following prior to the visit:
Is there a current or past criminal history
Is there a current or past mental health issue
Is there a current or past abuse or neglect report
Are you aware of any stressors or concerns
Has the family expressed discipline issues

9. General safety guidelines
IF IMMINENT DANGER:
Leave immediately
Call 911
Call local DHHS child welfare or abuse hotline
Call supervisor to debrief
In partnership with your supervisor, seek support from mental health consult as needed
Contact family as safety permits and is guided by your supervisor

10. General safety guidelines cont.
If you believe someone is in danger in the home:
Once you have secured yourself, give as much information to the authorities about the situation as possible
If you can get the person who is in danger on the phone with you, help them to remain calm
Follow up with your supervisor as soon as possible
Never give out your personal contact information unless pre-approved by your supervisor

11. Useful items to have available
First aid kit
Small amount of money or change
Disinfectant wipes, hand sanitizer, tissues, paper towel
Change of clothes

12. Other things to consider
Have a code word established with your co-workers so they can send help if necessary
Be sure your supervisor knows your schedule
Have a response plan established if home visitor does not return to the office
Encourage two person home visits when possible
Be familiar with local authority
Be sure to check the surrounding of your car before entering it to leave

13. Dealing with aggressive behavior
If an aggressive incident occurs, remember to remain calm and leave the home as soon as possible
Try to keep a barrier between you and the aggressor if at all possible
Speak slowly, try not to say anything that could inflame the situation
If you must lie to get out safely then do so; “Oh I forgot I have something in the car that I brought you”

14. Remember!! Trust your instincts!
Leave immediately if you feel uncomfortable
The safety of the home visitor is of utmost importance!