POISON: What to Do to Protect Kids
Little kids are naturally curious. To learn, they use all five senses which can be problematic when they ingest something harmful. Knowing possible risks will help to keep your children safe from accidents involving poisonous substances.
Accidental poisoning happens and it happens quickly. It’s good to be aware of threats as ninety percent of all poisonings occur at home. Poisons can be inhaled, swallowed, or splattered on the skin or eyes. Children under five-years-old are at the highest risk.
8 Tips to Keep Kids Safe from Poison
- Choose only non-toxic plants for indoor and outdoor use.
- Keep all prescription and over the counter drugs locked away to prevent accidental ingestion. Childproof bottles are not always kid proof.
- Carefully dispense prescription and other medications, including vitamins.
- Place all household cleaners, including laundry detergent, bleach, and dishwasher detergent, on high shelves out of reach for young children.
- Childproof cabinets especially if your little ones are climbers.
- Keep cosmetics put away. Even the bath salts on the side of the tub can be a danger for small children.
- When visiting other’s homes, keep a close eye on your children. Substances may be in easy reach and not typical (pool chemicals, medications, etc.).
- Moms, check your purse for possible risks.
If in doubt, always assume the child has been exposed to a poison. Children are curious. They get into things even if the substance smells bad. The natural instinct is to get the substance out of the child but don’t induce vomiting unless directed by a healthcare professional.
Call the American Association of Poison Control Centers Hotline at 1-800-222-1222 with questions. Post the number in a handy location and put it in the contact list on your phone. Take the time to visit the AAPCC website for more information.
Their homes are safe and free from fear…
Job 21:9
© 2014 Becky Danielson. All rights reserved.
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