Poison Prevention: In the Home

Small button batteries are extremely dangerous if ingested by a child. Be sure that items with lithium batteries such as remotes and toys are out of reach from children.

Camphor (Alcanfor) comes in many forms, but it is most often sold as blocks. Ingesting camphor or absorbing it on the skin may be dangerous and could lead to health problems, such as seizures. Dangerous exposures often happen when camphor blocks are placed under the crib or in bedding, or when too much is rubbed on the body.

Cosmetics and personal care products include common products, such as hand soap, shampoo, and toothpaste.

Exposure to cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and other nicotine products can lead to serious health conditions. E-cigarettes have a greater concentration of nicotine than other tobacco products on the market. These products may be available with flavors that are attractive to children and teens.

Household cleaners are common products such as bleach, ammonia, and detergent. A common poisoning exposure happens when ammonia and bleach are mixed together, creating a poisonous gas. Choose safer cleaning products.

Lamp oil and furniture oil are hydrocarbons such as these are extremely dangerous when ingested. Colored lamp oils can be especially appealing to children.

Laundry detergent pods and packets are colorful and soft. Children may think they are candy and put them in their mouths.

Medicine is common prescription and non-prescription pain relievers, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, and cold medicines can be harmful when taken or given incorrectly.

Pesticides are used to kill roaches, ants, fleas, rats and mice. Some of the most common household pesticides are insecticides and rodenticides.

If you use these products in or around the home, be sure to keep them out of reach of children. They can be dangerous when ingested or when they contact the skin. Do not use illegal pesticides.

Silica packets are often found in shoe boxes or new clothing pockets with “Do Not Eat” labels. They are usually nontoxic, but they can pose a choking risk for children.

Diaper rash cream and petroleum jelly are rarely a problem, but they should not be within a baby’s grabbing distance. Talcum powder is more dangerous and is no longer recommended for use when changing a baby's diaper.

Vitamins are often kept on the kitchen table and are appealing to children.