Many everyday items in your home can be poisonous or dangerous to your child. It’s important to know how to prevent accidental poisoning – and also what to do if you’re worried about what your child ate or drank.
Every day, children visit the hospital emergency room because they ate or drank something that was poisonous or dangerous.
Keeping your children safe at home includes making sure they don’t accidentally eat or drink anything that could cause illness or injury. Since there are many everyday items in the home that can be very dangerous for children – such as medicines, vitamins, cleaning supplies, small batteries, and certain plants – it’s important to keep these items completely out of reach. High cabinets, baby-proof locks, and secure baby gates are some effective ways to keep children away from potentially harmful items.
It’s also important to carefully read labels on anything you offer your child, such as the correct dosage of medicine. Doses are usually dependent on your child’s weight and age, or recommended by your pediatrician.
If your child ate or drank something they shouldn’t have, or if you want to know if something is potentially poisonous, contact the California Poison Control System at 1-800-222-2222. They offer immediate, free, and expert treatment advice and referral in case of exposure to poisonous or toxic substances. Click here for more info.
Finally, always trust your instincts and call 911 or head to the hospital emergency room immediately if you feel your child is ever in an emergency situation.
