Watch the CPCS video episode on poison prevention in the home (above).
About poison proofing your home
Most calls to the Poison Hotline come from home, highlighting the importance of poison safety in your house.
Here are 10 ways to protect you and your loved ones from poisoning dangers in and around the home.
- Do not take medicine in front of children; they love to imitate adults
- Install smoke alarms and CO detectors near each sleeping area in your home and test that they are working regularly
- Keep all household and personal care products in their original containers locked up, out of sight and reach of children
- Keep houseplants out of reach of small children and know the names of plants in your home and yard
- Never take medicine in front of children or call medicine candy—children may confuse medicine for candy
- Never leave children unattended around items that use button batteries (e.g., toys, remotes, greeting cards)
- Never leave purses or bags that may contain medicine, cosmetics, and other poison dangers unattended or in a child’s reach
- Never put something that is not food in a food or beverage container, such as a soda bottle, cup or glass
- Properly dispose of any expired, unwanted, or unused medicine around the home
- Save the toll-free Poison Help Line, 1-800-222-1222, in all phones—it’s fast, free, and confidential
