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Finger Lakes Regional Poison & Drug Information Center

Poison Prevention

Poison Prevention at Home

Top 5 causes of poisoning in kids…

1. Analgesics such as aspirin and ibuprofen

2. Cosmetics and personal care products

3. Household cleansing products

4. Plants

5. Foreign bodies and toys

Prevention is key!

We all like to think of our homes as being safe places, but the fact is that there are many poisonous substances lurking in your home that can be very dangerous for children and adults too. Heeding these prevention tips is the best way to make sure your home remains "Home Safe Home."

  • Never leave a child unattended, even for a second. Children are naturally curious and very quick.
  • Store all medications, household products and chemical products in a locked cabinet out of the reach and sight of children.
  • Store food and household products in separate areas. Many dangerous household products come in containers that look like food and drink containers and can cause mistaken usage.
  • Keep all household and chemical products in their original containers. Never store these products in a food container.
  • Always store medications in their original conatiners with child-proof caps out of the sight and reach of children.
  • Never call medicine "candy". Medicines and candies look alike to a child and they cannot tell the difference.
  • Do not take medications in front of children. Children like to imitate adults.
  • Vitamins are medicines. Keep them locked up and out of reach. Vitamins with iron can be very dangerous to a child if taken incorrectly.
  • Store purses, diaper bags and tote bags of visitors out of children's reach as they may contain medications or dangerous products.
  • Know the names of plants in your yard and home. A nursery or cooperative extension can give you the information.
  • Keep any poisonous plants away from children and pets.
  • Teach children to always "ask first" before putting anything in their mouths.
  • Keep a bottle of Syrup of Ipecac in your home but do not use it unless instructed by your physician or the poison center.
  • Keep the phone number of the poison center near your phone. 1-800-222-1222