You asked

Why is it important to poison proof your home?

Children love to put things in their mouths, which is a great cause for concern when so many children suffer from an accidental poisoning each year. A great way the help your child from consuming toxic materials is to make sure all toxic materials and chemicals are in a locked cupboard or storage area, and out of reach of your child’s hands.

Many times it is hard to tell which materials and chemicals are toxic and some items that you may not even consider as dangerous are toxic. You may want to do a room by room inspection of the chemicals in your home. Make sure to check drawers, closets, and cupboards. All toxic substances should be labelled and out of reach from your child.
These are the hazardous materials and chemicals that are most commonly ingested by children under 6:

•    Cosmetics and personal products
•    Prescription medications
•    Cleaning products
•    Over the counter medications
•    Household plants
•    Vitamins
•    Paint thinner and remover
•    Antifreeze
•    Pesticide
•    Alcohol

To make sure your child does not come in contact with harmful substances or materials you should always take these precautions:

1.    Lock up any harmful substances or materials.
2.    Dispose of any prescriptions or medications that are old or expired.
3.    Do not expect child resistant lids or containers to work properly.
4.    Keep chemicals in their original containers, so that in the event of an accident, you will know what it is that your child may have ingested.
5.    Read all labels on products you are about to buy, and try to buy less-toxic.
6.    And lastly, always keep an eye on your child. It only takes a second for a curious toddler to get into something they shouldn’t.

More questions

If a cut is too severe to treat at home then it is important to take your child to A&E or to your GP as stitches may be required. Go straight to the A&E if the cut is to an artery or if the bleeding will not stop.
The wound should heal itself in a few days. If the wound is painful, you can take painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen.
Generally speaking, most cuts and grazes are minor and can be easily treated at home.
There are lots of different dressings for minor burns and scalds. There is no particular dressing that works better than others, the important thing is to keep your burn clean and covered with a dressing.
The severity of a burn is determined by a healthcare professional based on how badly the skin is damaged.
A child’s skin is thinner and more sensitive than that of an adult so a burn can be more serious.
Although a bee sting can be painful, it is usually fairly harmless.
Electric shocks can be serious or minor so how do you know what to do?
Toddlers often get bruises but when should you be concerned?
Accidental poisoning happens when children get their hands on unsuspectingly hazardous items lying around the house. Ensure you thoroughly inspect every room of your house!

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