Although Grandparents Day, on Sept. 10, has already passed, the California Poison Control System (CPCS) is asking California residents to keep these safety tips in mind that will help grandparents protect their precious grandchildren.
— Make sure the grandparent’s home is “poison proof.” Secure all medicines, cleaning products and personal care products. Poisonings can occur at grandparents’ homes when they may not remember how quickly children can move or how inventive they can be in exploring new spaces.
— If grandparents use alcohol or tobacco, make sure these products are out of reach of children.
— Carbon monoxide is a holiday killer. Never heat a home with a gas stove top, gas oven or use charcoal indoors. Make sure the chimney flue is fully open before enjoying a holiday evening in front of the fireplace.
— Flat, coin-shaped batteries and tiny hearing aid batteries, if swallowed, can cause serious injury to grandchildren. Keep all batteries away from babies, children and pets.
— Lead can still be found in new and used children’s products, like toys, backpacks, lunchboxes and jewelry. To reduce children’s risk for lead exposure, the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) tests and issues recalls of current products that may potentially expose children to lead. Check the CPSC website or call 800-638-2272 to be sure your child’s toys are safe.
If you have more questions regarding poison encounters, call CPCS at 800-222-1222 and speak to a trained pharmacist, nurse or other provider.