Prevent Accidental Poisoning

According to SafeKids, every year more that 1.2 million children under the age of five are accidentally poisoned. While over forty percent of those poisonings are attributed to accidental exposure to prescription drugs, the remaining are caused by everything from household cleaners to wild berries.

There are numerous tip-lists about poison prevention online, most of which focus on keeping potentially dangerous products out of reach or locked up. These are important steps and, with toddlers and preschoolers in the house, should not be taken lightly. If you have been putting off child-proofing your home because your child(ren) are too young to walk, or because you feel your child is under constant supervision, now is the time to install latches on cabinets and put up high any chemicals in your garage. Before you can blink, baby will be curiously exploring – often right under your nose. Also, don’t forget travel cases and handbags, especially of visitors; make sure they are out of reach as well.

For children old enough to understand, knowledge can be the greatest protection. The best publication we have found for tips on how to talk with children about poisons was drafted by the American Association of Poison Control Centers (AAPCC). It will teach you how to describe poisons and explain what to do and not to do in language your children will understand.