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Trusted answers from The Hospital for Sick Children September 02, 2010
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// Safety and the Environment / Indoor Safety / Poison Prevention   Email Article Print Comment Share
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Poison Prevention

Keep all types of medicines, vitamins, and chemicals locked up in a secure container such as a locked tool box. Remember also that drain cleaners, furniture polish, drugs, insecticides, cosmetics, nail polish remover, and automotive products are potentially dangerous for children.

Keep all household chemicals in the original container. Don't store any chemicals in soft drink, juice, or water bottles. Don't put gasoline into any type of food or beverage container.

Keep alcoholic beverages out of a child's reach. Alcoholic beverages have caused serious poisonings. As little as 3 ounces of hard liquor can kill a 2-year-old child. Remember that most mouthwashes contain 15% to 25% alcohol.

Child-resistant caps are not child-proof. They can be opened; it is just harder to do.

Whenever you or your child is prescribed a new drug, make sure that you are giving the right dose. Remember to keep it locked up or out of the child’s reach.

Always read the label before giving any medicine. Be sure it's the right drug and that you are giving the correct dosage. Don't give medicines in the dark.

Don't leave drugs where children can easily get them, like on countertops or in a purse. When you have guests, keep their purses out of reach of children.

Know the names of all your houseplants that could cause sickness other than vomiting or diarrhea. Keep them out of reach of children.

Remember that kids often get into poisons simply to satisfy their curiosity. Telling a young child not to put something in her mouth is not enough to prevent poisoning. To prevent poisonings, parents have to consistently supervise where young children are and what they are doing in addition to locking up dangerous products.

Keep all cigarettes, butts, and ashtrays away from children.

When visiting other people’s home, keep a close eye on your child.

Keep the telephone number of your local Poison Information Centre near your phone.

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Last ReviewedReviewed by
November 12, 2004Safe Kids Canada
 
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