Children of all ages, including infants, can be poison victims in your home. Understand the dangers as you protect your kids during Poison Prevention Month.
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Common Poisonous Substances at Home
- Alcoholic beverages.
- Batteries.
- Bug spray and pest traps.
- Household cleaners.
- Houseplants.
- Laundry detergent pods.
- Medications, prescription and over-the-counter.
- Paint and paint thinner, including nail polish.
- Personal care items such as hand sanitizer, soap and peroxide.
- Pesticides for your home or garden.
- Tobacco, including e-cigarettes and liquid nicotine.
- Vitamins and supplements, including gummy varieties.
How to Stop Childhood Poisoning
Protect your children from poisoning by preventing accidental and intentional exposures and by having a plan to respond to incidents quickly.
- Lock poisonous substances in a secure location such as an elevated cabinet, locker or bin. Hide the keys from your kids.
- Store all poisonous substances away from and out of food and drink containers.
- Sort poisons by type.
- Store poisonous substances in original packaging. Original packaging helps prevent accidental ingestion and provides responders with important information.
- Teach children to follow the “Ask First” rule before they eat anything since poisonous substances often look like food or drink.
- Use poisons safely.
Safe-use tips
- Read all labels and cautions on poisonous substance packaging.
- Never walk away from or leave cleaning supplies and medications unattended.
- Don’t mix cleaning supplies or medications.
- Don't refer to the medicines you or your kids take as candy.
- Measure and take medications properly and in a well-lit location rather than the dark.
- Dispose of all poisonous substances properly and out of your child’s reach.
- Use childproof caps, but keep in mind that nothing is completely child-resistant.
- Place visitor handbags, purses and coats out of reach since kids can access poisonous substances in these locations.
- Plan to act fast. Kids need immediate medical attention after they ingest a poisonous substance.
- Place the Poison Control Hotline number (800-222-1222) on speed dial. Post it prominently and give it to babysitters.
- Ensure all childcare providers follow these prevention and planning steps.
If household products or furniture are a concern in your home, you may also find it helpful to review Wood Household Furniture, Upholstered Insurance for information on common hazards related to furnishings.
Use these tips to keep your kids safe during Poison Prevention Month. For more information, contact your local poison control center or call 800-222-1222, and if you need personalized guidance, talk to an agent.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my child swallows a household product?
Call the Poison Control Hotline at 800-222-1222 immediately and follow their instructions; seek emergency medical care if advised or if your child shows symptoms.
Are laundry detergent pods dangerous for young children?
Yes; they can cause severe irritation or poisoning if ingested or if the contents contact eyes, so keep them locked up and out of sight.
Do childproof caps make medications safe for kids?
Childproof caps reduce risk but are not child-proof; safe storage, supervision, and keeping medicines out of sight are still necessary.