ccording to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) children ages 1 to 3 are at the highest risk for poisoning. One of the ways young children learn is by putting things in their mouths. Many household products can be poisonous if swallowed, if in contact with the skin or eyes, or if inhaled. You can prepare your home by storing household products and medications in a locked cabinet out of sight and reach of children. Know which household products are poisonous.

Something as common as mouthwash can be harmful if a child swallows a large amount. And remember never to leave potentially poisonous household products unattended while in use. It takes only seconds for a poisoning to occur. The AAP recommends the following to eliminate potential poisonous hazards:

•	Keep harmful products out of your child’s sight and reach.
•	Take extra care during stressful times.
•	Never call medicine “candy.”
•	Buy medicine and household products in child-resistant packages.
•	Always replace the safety caps immediately after use.
•	Never leave alcohol within a child’s reach.
•	Seek help if your child swallows a substance that is not food. Call the Poison Center or your doctor.
•	Keep these telephone numbers by every phone: the poison control center, pediatrician, police, fire department, emergency medical services and a neighbor.
•	Keep a 1-ounce bottle of syrup of ipecac in your home and periodically check the expiration date and replace as needed. Use it only when told to do so by the Poison Center. Keep products in their containers. Never put inedible products in food or drink containers.
•	Read labels with care before using any product.
•	Teach children not to drink or eat anything unless it is given by an adult.
•	Do not take medicine in front of small children. Children tend to copy adult behavior.
•	Check your home often for old medications or substances and discard them.
•	Be alert for repeated poisonings. Children who swallow a poison are likely to try again within a year.

You should always follow the medical care and advice of your pediatrician.

Your pediatrician may recommend variations in treatment based on your child’s individual circumstance.