As a parent, you want to do everything possible to keep your child safe. But do you know what to do in order to protect your child from household poisons? If not, National Poison Prevention Week is a good time to learn. Here are some important tips to follow:

• Trained posion control experts are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year at the Posion Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. Keep this number handy at all times and program it into your phone.
   
• Remember that poisons include not only medicines and cleaning solutions, but also things such as make up, nail polish remover, hair color dye, anti-perspirant and perfume. Keep all possible poisons in a locked cabinet out of the reach of children, including medicines, pet medicines, alcohol, cleaning products, mouthwash, cosmetics, gasoline, kerosene, lighter fluid, paint thinner, windshield washer fluid, antifreeze and other dangerous substances. When using cleaning products or other potentially poisonous substances, never leave then unattended with children present.
   
• An improper dosage of children’s medications can be poisonous. Always double-check the recommended dosage before administering medication to your child. Also, avoid telling your child that a medicine tastes like candy. Such a statement can send an unsafe message.
   
• Certain plants can also be poisonous, including rhododendron, English ivy, lily of the valley, holly and mistletoe. Check to be sure the plants in and around your home are safe.
   
• If your child is old enough, explore the American Association of Poison Control Center’s online Poison Tips for Children together. The tone and content are designed to help teach kids what’s safe and what’s not.
   
• Ask that family members or others who care for your child read the American Associations of Poison Control Center’s Tips for Babysitters and Other Caregivers. It contains important basics and is a good refresher for someone who may not have reason to think about child safety on a regular basis.

If your child consumes a poison or medication improperly, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 immediately. Follow their instructions and if they determine that you should seek immediate medical care, come to our pediatric ER at Kendall Regional Medical Center. For quick health-related questions or for a physician referral, please contact the Consult-A-Nurse® service at 1-888-256-7719.

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