As a host family, you should handle your au pair’s illnesses, accidents or medical emergencies in the same way that you would for any family member. If the situation is serious, please contact your local Community Counselor as soon as possible. Since au pairs are adults, they may sign any consent form required. If your au pair is not able to sign a consent form, the program has a signed release on file for treatment (included as part of the agreement signed by the au pair at the time of her application to the program). In such a situation it would be appropriate to call the 24 hour emergency service at 1-800-928-7247.

Your au pair may need to secure emergency medical care for your child(ren) in your absence. Instruct your au pair on the procedures to follow in case of a medical emergency involving your child(ren).

As an au pair takes on responsibility in your household, the au pair is caring for your child(ren) but also assumes some responsibility for your home and your car. To help the au pair be prepared if something unusual happens, be sure you give them a complete tour of the house, including the circuit breaker, the main water shut-off, and how to turn the fuse on and off. Provide them with a complete list of phone numbers and other information they might need.

Download a list of helpful questions to ask in case of a household emergency.

Car accidents can be disorienting. Make sure that your au pair knows where to find the registration and insurance information for the car they are driving.  Tell your au pair that in the event of an accident, they must gather information from the other driver so that a complete report can be made to the police and insurance company. If they are comfortable doing so; taking pictures of the damage and location can be helpful when filing a police report or insurance claim.

Download a list of helpful questions to ask in case of an motor vehicle accident.