277 2 7 Chapter 11 Promoting Children’s Safety
If you suspect that a child
in your classroom has eaten
something poisonous, remain
calm. Telephone the nearest poison
control center. If your area does
not have a poison control center,
call the nearest emergency room.
Ask for instructions on treating
the child.
Emergency Procedures for
Poisonings
Poisoning emergencies
often involve swallowing toxic
substances. Other types of
poisoning emergencies can occur.
These include breathing toxic
fumes and chemical injuries to the
eyes or skin.
If any type of poisoning
emergency occurs, follow these
procedures. Do not rely on first fi
aid information, antidote charts,
or product information. Often
this information is outdated or
incorrect. The child may experience
additional injury if the wrong
action is taken.
Focus on Health
Poison Proofin Poison Proofing
The accidental poisoning of children can
happen—anywhere, ha pp en a ny wh er e, a a ny ny t t ime—whether im e wh et he r at at
home, at a child care center, or at a family
day care home. Vigilant action is necessary
to poison proof any area where children
are present. Here are some tips to prevent
accidental poisonings.
★ Store poisonous substances in their original
containers in locked storage. Make sure they
are not used in any way that will contaminate
play surfaces or food preparation areas.
Always follow the manufacturer’s directions
when using any product.
★ Store medications in a locked cabinet or
room and out of sight and reach of children.
Make sure medications are fitted with fi
child-safety devices.
★ Store medications away from
food and toxic materials.
★ Refer to medication labels
to ensure giving children the
proper dosage of necessary
medicines as prescribed by the
health-care professional.
Poisonous Substances
Batteries/battery acid
Candle wax
Cleaners: ammonia,
bleach, dishwasher
detergent,
dishwashing liquid,
disinfectants, drain
cleaner, dusting
spray, lemon oil,
spot remover,
toilet bowl cleaner,
window cleaner
Cosmetics m and
per rs onal care
items: m after-shave
lotio on , hair care
pro od ucts, makeup,
mouthwash, nail
polish and nail
polish remover,
per rf ume,
sun ns creen
Flowers and plants:
many varieties—
consult a
greenhouse for
names
Glue
Lighter fl uid
Matches
Medications: many
prescription and
over-the-counter
drugs
Mouse poison
Paint and paint
thinners
Pesticides
Plant food
Shoe polish
Soap
Vitamins
These T common household items are all poisonous and should be kept out of the
reach e e ac h of of c c hildren hi ld re n.
T
re re
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