Halloween is the kick-off for the candy season in many American homes. But as young children become accustomed to consuming sweet treats, they also may be at a greater risk of helping themselves to a dangerous look-alike, like medicine, household cleaners, and other potentially poisonous products. Browse the resources below to learn about simple ways to educate your children and safely store products to prevent an accidental poisoning at home, as well as what to do if you believe someone has ingested or been exposed to a poison.
Candy vs. Medicine -- This infographic from the Rutgers chapter of the American Pharmacists Association will help you review what is and is not candy with your young children.
Put Your Medicines Up and Away and Out of Sight -- Up And Away educates parents and caregivers on the importance of safe medicine storage. Their homepage has a wealth of information and ideas. Scroll down to the Resources section for infographics, a coloring book, and a guide just for grandparents.
Batteries Cause Devastating Injuries -- From Poison Control, the National Capital Poison Center: Learn about the risks of swallowing button batteries, a suprisingly common and potentially deadly accident.
Poison Prevention and Treatment Tips -- From HealthyChildren.org: Most poisonings occur when parents or caregivers are home but not paying attention. Learn how to prevent a poisoning at your home.
Tips to Prevent Poisonings: Safety Tips For You, Your Family, and Friends -- This article from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides information about preventing a household or community poisoning and what to do if you or someone else has ingested, inhaled, or been exposed to a poisonous substance.
Six Common and Concerning Childhood Poisons -- Learn about some especially dangerous household poisons in this article from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.
A Young Child Goes to the ER for Medicine Poisoning Every Ten Minutes. Here's Why -- Nearly 52,000 children under the age of 6 were treated in emergency rooms for medicine poisonings in 2017. This article from CNN underscores the importance of prevention.