Poison Prevention

Let’s face it, sometimes kids get into things that they probably shouldn’t. Here are a few tips to keep little explorers from finding their way into household items that could be dangerous. But just in case, we’ll also show you what to do if your child accidentally ingests something harmful.

The Facts

• Poisoning is the third leading cause of unintentional injury death among children ages 1 to 19 years.
• Every year, more than 500,000 parents call the poison control center because a child got into medicine or was given the wrong dose.
• Every day, 65 children are seen in the emergency room due to exposure to household cleaning products.

Top Tips

• Store all household products and cleaning solutions out of children’s sight and reach.
• Keep all medications and cleaning solutions in their original packages and containers.
• Young kids are often eye-level with items under the kitchen and bathroom sinks.
• Think about places kids get into medicine, like in purses, on counters, or nightstands.
• Never refer to medicine or vitamins as “candy.”
• Store poisonous items out of reach or use safety locks on cabinets within reach.
• These items also include liquid packets for the laundry and dishwasher.
• It only takes a few minutes, and it gives you one less thing to worry about.
• Read product labels to find out what can be hazardous to kids. Dangerous household items include makeup, personal care products, plants, pesticides, lead, art supplies, alcohol and carbon monoxide.
• Make sure that all medications, including vitamins and adult medicines, are stored out of reach and out of sight or children.
• Put the toll-free number Poison Help Number (1-800-222-1222) into your home and cell phones. You should also post it near your phone or on your refrigerator for the babysitter.