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POISON SAFETY TIPS FOR TEEN BABYSITTERS

Caring for children is a great job for teens, but keeping children safe from injuries is a serious and important part of babysitting. Poisoning is one of the most common, preventable childhood injuries and most of the time it happens right at home.

Here's a list of SOME of the poisons that may be at home:
Cosmetics Cleaning products
Medicines Plants
Cigarettes Vitamins
Batteries Lighter fluids
Pesticides Alcohols
Before parents leave a sitter in charge of a child, they should write down some basic information, such as the child's age and weight, any allergies or medical conditions, the pediatrician's name and number, and how to reach the parents. This may be very important if an emergency arises.

Poison prevention is the key to poison safety. Remember these tips:

  • Young children are curious, and are likely to taste products that look colorful or smell nice.

  • Never leave small children alone, even for just a minute. Continue to watch them closely when answering the door or phone.

  • All medicines and household chemicals should be out of sight in locked cabinets, not just up on a high counter, and definitely not in a purse.

  • Safety latches on drawers or cabinets, and child resistant caps on bottles, are helpful in keeping poisons out of the hands of children, but careful and constant supervision is still important.

  • When giving medicine to a child, be sure to follow the instructions exactly, and return the container to a safe storage place immediately.

What if, despite your efforts, a child does get into something that can be poisonous?

Don't take a wait and see approach because there are poisons that cause injury that can't be seen right away. CALL THE BLUE RIDGE POISON CENTER IMMEDIATELY at 1-800-451-1428.

July 25, 2000