As parents or caregivers, keeping children safe is our top priority. However, despite our best efforts, accidents can happen. One of the most common accidents that can be prevented is unintentional poisoning from medication.
It’s important to understand that medicines are not sweets and should be treated with care. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), medicines are the leading cause of child poisoning deaths. Therefore, it’s crucial to take extra precautions to ensure that medications are stored safely out of reach of children.
Here are some tips to help keep your child safe when it comes to medicines:
Store Medications Properly: Keep all medications in their original containers and store them out of reach of children. Make sure the lids are tightly secured and that the containers are stored in a locked cabinet or in a high, hard-to-reach area. Avoid leaving medications on counters, bedside tables, or other easily accessible areas.
Be Mindful of Guests: If you have guests in your home, make sure they also store their medications out of reach of children. Encourage them to keep their medications in their bags or luggage, which should be stored in a safe place.
Dispose of Medications Properly: Check the expiration dates of all medications and dispose of any that are outdated or no longer needed. Never flush medications down the toilet or throw them in the trash, as this can harm the environment. Instead, take them to a designated medication drop-off location, such as a pharmacy or police station.
Educate Your Child: Teach your child about the dangers of medications and explain that they should never take any medication without an adult’s permission. Also, teach your child to always ask an adult before putting anything in their mouth.
Be Prepared: Accidents can still happen, even when precautions are taken. Be prepared by keeping the number for Poison Control (0861 555 777) readily available. Post it in a prominent location in your home, such as on the refrigerator, and program it into your phone.
- Call 10111 if your child is unconscious and start CPR if your child is not breathing.
Remember, prevention is the key to keeping children safe from accidental poisoning. By taking these simple steps, you can help ensure that your child stays healthy and happy.
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