Prevention of poisoning
What do I do if I you suspect a poisoning
Some common poisons
1. It is important to protect your child from exposure to drugs and chemicals (poisons).
2. It is important for Mom and Dad as well as grandparents and any other caregiver to be aware of possible hazards.
3. Here are some things you as a parent can do:
a. Keep dangerous substances (e.g., drugs and chemicals) in their original, labeled, child-resistant containers
b. Keep dangerous substances (e.g., drugs and chemicals) out of sight and out of reach. If possible, lock them up
c. Put dangerous substances (e.g., drugs and chemicals) back in their storage space right after using them
d. Check purses, diaper bags or suitcases for dangerous substances (e.g., drugs and chemicals). Take them and lock them up, do not leave them in these places
e. Take the child with you when you go to answer the phone or the door. Do not leave your child alone with a substance while it is being used
f. Do not call a medicine “candy.”
1. If you suspect your child may have been exposed to a harmful substance:
a. CALL the Poison Control Number! 1-800-222-1222
b. DO NOT give your child anything by mouth or put anything on their skin unless you are told to do so by the Poison Control Center
c. DO NOT give your child Ipecac or Activated Charcoal unless you are told to do so by the Poison Control Center.
2. Post the poison Control Number by your telephone, the number is always the same no matter where you live
a. If you cannot find the number or can’t remember the number—CALL 911
b. Do not call your doctor or the hospital.
3. Tell the Poison Control Center:
a. The substance your child may have been exposed to
b. If the substance was swallowed, breathed in or put on the skin
c. How much of the substance was taken or used, if you know
d. How your child is acting or anything unusual he/she is doing (e.g. Is he sleepy or vomiting or bleeding).
4. If you are told to go to the hospital, take the substance in the container with you.
1. Medicines (drugs)
a. ALL medicines should be considered dangerous, even if they are ordered for your child or bought over-the-counter
b. Acetaminophen (a-seat-a-min-oh-fen) [e.g., Children’s Tylenol]
c. Vitamins, especially children’s chewable vitamins
d. Heart pills
e. Blood pressure pills.
2. Cleaning products
3. Cosmetics
4. Plants and their berries
5. Pesticides—Always keep these locked away
6. Lawn care products
a. Fertilizer
b. Weed killer
7. Household/Garage item
a. Mothballs
b. Turpentine
c. Paint thinner
d. Gasoline
e. Kerosene
f. Lighter fluid
g. Paraffin
8. Beer, wine and liquor
9. Tobacco, in any form
Reviewed/Revised: 6/05, 4/07
