Whether you know it or not, there are things in your house right now that could cause you, or, worse, your children, harm.
There are a number of items in your home that could or do contain components that are poisonous to children, adults and pets.
The first defense is prevention: secure these items out of reach of children and in their original containers. And poison-proof your home.
A short list of things you should keep an eye on or allow limited access to:
- Cosmetics and personal care products.
- Bug and insect sprays (pesticides).
- Pain medicines.
- Laundry cleaners including soap pods, detergents and bleach.
What should you do if your child or you are exposed to or ingest any of these items?
First, call 9-1-1. Or Frontline ER.
Be sure you have access to the package or container, so you can tell the operator the nature of the item causing the emergency. Read the label. If you have more time, call the 800 number on the label and follow the guidelines spelled out on the label for an emergency. Some of those recommendations could include:
- Inducement of vomiting (take care with this as many caustic materials can cause even more harm; see the link above).
- Feeding of milk or water.
- Washing of skin and clothing.
- Flushing out eyes with clean water.
Should the operator tell you to seek immediate medical attention, call or visit your closest Frontline ER. We are here to help and can help the treatment and recovery start sooner than a hospital ER can.
Frontline ER is an acute care emergency room providing healthcare services to the communities we live and work within. Give us a call or contact us through our website should you have more questions about our services.
