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26  TOPIC 2 DIMENSIONS OF YOUNG CHILDREN’S SETTING
should be regularly maintained to ensure they are always in good condition and repaired when necessary. All items and materials used by the children should be checked first to see if they are safe and durable, and then checked regularly to make sure that their condition is still good and that they are sanitised.
A healthy and safe environment is achievable only through adequate staff to children ratio. The staff must be trained and knowledgeable about safe environments. Fire exits, fire alarms, and fire escapes should be labelled clearly. Staff should be familiar with the location of building exits and emergency procedures. In order for children to be familiar with fire drill routines, staff should be trained and regular fire drills should be conducted. Fire drills help children learn to response if a real emergency does occur.
As accidents can happen anywhere at any time, we can minimise and control them by providing a safe and healthy environment. Teaching children how to manage danger and maintain a healthy environment is vital in early childhood education. Besides, the location of early childhood centres must be free from traffic, in a safe neighbourhood and well-maintained. Table 2.2 describes safety plans for early childhood settings.
Table 2.2: Safety Plans for Early Childhood Settings
Emergency exits
Emergency exits are must be provided in the building in order for safe evacuation. There should be emergency stairs on the upper ground of the building facing outside so that children and staff can evacuate quickly to the open area. The emergency exits are clearly identified and escape routes must be clearly marked. Also ensure that doorways and exits are free from equipment to allow unobstructed passage.
Emergency contact numbers
Always display current emergency contact numbers of the fire department and the nearest police station at an appropriate place that is easily seen by staff. A working telephone is required to maintain contact with sources outside the centre. All staff are advised to enter current emergency contact numbers into their hand phone to make it easier for them to contact outside sources immediately.
Fire extinguishers
Working fire extinguishers must be regularly maintained and placed in the kitchen and on each floor of the building. It must located within easy reach by adults.
Cooking Area
Cooking area should be at least 10 feet away from children. Stoves, microwaves, pipes and other hot surfaces should be placed in areas that cannot be reached by children.
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