POISON PREVENTION
Young children are at special risk for poisoning. They are curious. They don't know what's safe to eat or drink. Even small amounts of many drugs and poisons can harm them.
Over 50% of poisoning exposures reported to Virginia Poison Control Centers occurred among children 5 and younger.
The most common items involved in childhood poisonings are cosmetics and personal care products, cleaning agents, pain killers, vitamin and mineral supplements, cough and cold preparations, pesticides, and antihistamines.
The most dangerous poisons for children include medicines, pesticides, windshield washer solution, antifreeze, drain cleaners, toilet bowl cleaners, alcoholic beverages, lamp oil, furniture polish, gasoline, kerosene and paint thinner.
True Story
During a visit to a grandparent's home, a 2 year old girl was discovered screaming and standing next to an open container of hair straightening lotion. Blisters were later noted on her lips, chin and hand. She refused to eat or drink anything. Examination at the hospital revealed superficial mucosal burns in the mouth and throat which slowly healed over the following ten days.