Keep children safe from poisons in your home

Young children typically put all kinds of things in their mouths — it’s part of how they learn. Unfortunately, many household products can be deadly if swallowed, and extremely harmful (if not poisonous) when inhaled or put in contact with the skin or eyes; Children move very quickly so it’s critical to take preventive steps so your young child is less likely to get his or her tiny hands on the wrong thing.

Parents of young children aren’t the only ones who should think about poison prevention. If you’re a grandparent, or have friends or relatives with young children, you’ll want your home to be safe for children.

• Common household products — Many items generally considered harmless to and adult, such as over-the-counter medications or cosmetics, are potentially dangerous to a young child. Here are a few examples:
• Medicines — Vitamins and minerals, cold-relief medicines, allergy and asthma medicines, ibuprofen, aspirin and acetaminophen.
• Household products — Moth balls, furniture polish, drain cleaners, weed killers, insect or rat poisons, lye, paint thinners, antifreeze, windshield washer fluid, gasoline, kerosene, lamp oil — and even dishwasher detergent

Look for these warning symbols

Special symbols or pictures are put on the labels of products that are dangerous. The symbol shows a picture inside a frame. The picture tells you the type of danger.

• 

  Poison

  This symbol means the product could make you or your child very sick or even die if it is swallowed or licked. Some products with this symbol can cause you or your child harm if they are breathed in.
• 

  Flammable

  This symbol means the product can catch fire easily. Keep this product away from heat, flames, and sparks.
• 

  Corrosive

  This symbol means the product can burn skin or the eyes. If it is swallowed, it will also burn the throat and stomach.
• 

  Explosive

  This symbol means the product can burn skin or the eyes. If it is swallowed, it will also burn the throat and stomach.

Safety rules

• Keep harmful products locked up and out of your child’s sight and reach.
• Use safety latches or locks on drawers and cabinets where you keep dangerous items.
• Call medicine by its correct name — don’t confuse your child by calling medicine candy.
• Always replace the safety caps immediately after use.
• Keep products in their original containers.
• Read labels with care before using any product.
• Do not take medicine in front of small children. Children tend to copy adult behavior.

Emergency numbers

• Call 911 immediately if you notice any of the following symptoms:
• Difficulty breathing
• Severe throat pain
• Burns on the lips or mouth
• Convulsions
• Unconsciousness
• Extreme sleepiness

If your child doesnʹt exhibit any of the serious symptoms listed above, call the Poison Help Line at (800) 222-1222. This number will connect you to emergency help in your area. Keep the number by every phone, along with your doctor’s number, and enter these numbers into your cell phone as well.
Important note: Donʹt have your child vomit unless directed to do so by a medical professional.

Personal supervision

Despite your best efforts to create a safe environment for children, accidents can still happen. Your personal supervision, or that of another trusted adult, will always be the most valuable protection. Call me for more information, and share this with your family and friends so they too can keep their children and homes safe from poisons.

*Remember, if someone else's child is injured while in YOUR care, you may be liable for THEIR injuries. This is another reason to make sure your home insurance protects you properly. For a consultation on how home insurance can protect you, contact Farmers Insurance - The Wertzberger Agency at 913-383-3276 or by emailing us HERE.