For many years, your child will not be able to understand the concept of danger. As your very curious child continues to develop through different stages and explores every corner of your home, you will need to keep him safe from all harmful things – especially poisons. As a parent, you'll need to set up effective safety barriers. To do this, you should learn about the products in your home. Do you know which products are dangerous for children?
Infants and toddlers often explore their world by putting things in their mouths. Babies and very young children often put things in their mouths as a way of exploring the world.
You should keep cleaning products safely locked up from the moment you bring your baby home from the hospital. Many children are able to get into cabinets before their parents realize that they have learned to do this.
Products should always be stored in their original containers. It’s much easier to make a mistake about a harmful substance if it’s not in its original container. Poisonings have occurred because an item such as paint thinner was stored in a soft drink bottle. Keep items in the container they came in and make sure the labels are clear.
Keep drugs safely out of reach - including over-the-counter drugs that may be in your purse. Swallowing medicine is the most common cause of poisoning in children, even birth control pills or vitamin pills can poison your child. Avoid taking medication when your child is watching - this is one of the ways they learn. Otherwise, he may try to find your medication and copy you. Keep in mind that child resistant safety caps are not childproof. In fact, many children can open them.
Don’t assume that because something tastes bad your baby will not consume it. Babies and young children frequently swallow things (i.e. perfume) that do not taste or smell good to adults. Perfume is a poison. If your child swallows this, it can be very dangerous.
If you smoke, be sure to store and dispose of your cigarettes, butts and ashtrays somewhere your child cannot get access to them. If your child swallows just 1 unsmoked cigarette or 2 cigarette butts, he could get sick.