FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Protecting Children Against Accidental Poisoning; A Warning For Grandparents
NEW YORK, NY (March 12, 2015) — The names “Grandma” and “Grandpa” have long been synonymous with trips to the circus, double-dip ice cream cones and shiny new silver dollars. But grandparents unintentionally may contribute to accidental poisoning of children warns the Council on Family Health.
In homes where young children frequently visit, basic precautions against accidental poisoning are often overlooked. The results can be deadly.
Opening the medicine bottle in grandma’s purse is an inviting challenge for any curious youngster. Grandpa’s paint solvent left out on the counter may prove equally fascinating. Although legislation requires potentially dangerous drugs and household items to be packaged in child-resistant containers, these products are available in easy-to-open containers to benefit the elderly or handicapped. Visiting grandchildren should always be taken into consideration before such items are purchased. Their safety is well worth a little inconvenience.
It is not uncommon for grandparents to use medicines frequently. Taking medicines in front of children should be avoided. Children naturally want to be like grandma and grandpa and may try to imitate this behavior.
As part of its program for National Poison Prevention Week, March 18-24, the Council on Family Health, a public service of the manufacturers of medicines, offers these lifesaving tips on poison prevention.
- – Keep all medicines and household products out of sight and reach of children, locked away if possible. When in use these items should never be out of sight of adults — even for the time it takes to answer the telephone.
- – Read label directions carefully, in good lighting, whenever medicines are used.
- – Safely discard prescription drugs no longer being taken under a doctor’s advice.
- – Store all medicines and household items in their original containers — never in those associated with food or drink.
- – Ask your pharmacist about safety packaging. Be sure to replace “child-proof” caps carefully.
- – When talking to children, never refer to medicines as “candy.”
- – Avoid taking medicines in front of children.
- – Store medicines separately from other household products.
The Council on Family Health offers a free “First Aid In The Home” chart which tells what to do in the event of poisoning and other household emergencies. The chart also contains a section “For A Safe Medicine Cabinet.” (etc.)
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