With last week being National Poison Prevention Week, Richmond Fire-Rescue is reminding parents and caregivers about the dangers of unintentional poisoning and offering tips on how to keep children safe.
Parents and caregivers are urged to keep chemicals, medications, cleaning supplies and art supplies not meant for children, safely stored in a locked cabinet or box, out of the reach of children.
If a poisoning is ever suspected, immediately contact the local Poison Control Centre or dial 911.
Unintentional poisoning is a common cause of preventable injury to children in Canada, said Richmond fire chief John McGowan.
We urge all parents and caregivers to be extra diligent about the use and safe storage of all possible toxic substances in and around your home.
Children under five are at the highest risk of preventable poisoning. Medication is the leading cause of poisoning in children, but household cleaners and personal care products are also common causes for poisoning.
Each year there are thousands of calls placed to Poison Control Centres related to accidental poisonings to children and, in many cases, the children can be treated at their homes.
Parents should take the time to ensure that their medications and all potential poisons are in their original containers and stored in a childproof cabinet.
Children should also be taught the symbols found on household chemical products that indicate hazards to themselves and the environment. A simple and effective message can be STOP when you see a container; LOOK for a hazard symbol and STAY SAFE go get a grown up.
