Live-in caregivers must have a level of fluency in English or French that enables them to function

independently in an unsupervised setting and to protect the persons in their care. They must be able

to:

� respond to emergency situations by contacting a doctor, ambulance, police or fire department;

� answer the telephone and the door;

� read the labels on medication; and

� may be required to communicate with others outside the home, such as schools, stores, or other

institutions.

A proficiency in speaking, understanding and reading will also ensure that caregivers understand

their rights and obligations and are not dependent on their employers to interpret provincial labour

legislation and employment standards. They will also be better equipped to seek outside assistance

in the event of personal difficulties or if they find themselves in an abusive employment situation.