Poisoning

Due to children’s inquisitive nature and inability to detect poisonous substances, it is important to secure all dangerous chemicals and medications. Some key ideas to consider and relevant safety products are listed below: 

• Children between one and three years of age are most at risk of poisoning.
   
• Poisonous substances are found in the kitchen, bathroom, laundry, shed, garage and cupboards – these areas should be secured using appropriate locks and latches.
   
• Never refer to medicine as lollies or treats.
   
• Always store medicines, cleaners and chemicals in their original container so that they cann't be confused with cordial, soft drink or juices.
   
• Don’t consume your medicine in front of your child.
   
• Dispose of unwanted and out-of-date medicines at your local chemist.
   
• Check that plants in your garden are not poisonous.
   
• When administering medicines always double check the dosage required to avoid overdosing. Write the dosage and the time the medicine was administered in a notepad and keep this stored in your medicine cupboard. This will decrease the chance of overdosing but can also be extremely useful as a detailed schedule of the past 24 hours, if your child needs medical attention.
   
• Ensure that your visitors’ handbags are kept well out of reach. Children can be very inquisitive when adults are busy and you never know what medication, perfume, etc your friend/relative may have in their bag.
   
• If your child does swallow any substances, contact the Poison information line 13 11 26.
   
• Along with recording emergency telephone numbers near your telephone it's also a good idea to write your name, telephone number and address and cross street near the phone. You never know when someone may need to call an ambulance from your phone and not be aware of the exact address.

Source: Modified from The Accident Prevention Foundation of Australia - Kidsafe and The Mother and Baby "Safety Guide".