Keeping medicine away from children is important in preventing poisoning

By Riverside (Calif.) Press-Enterprise

Poison centers around the nation answered more than 1 million emergency calls regarding children age 5 and younger during 2000.

Nearly half of those calls concerned poison exposures from medications.

Parents and other caregivers can help prevent accidental poisonings by taking precautions around the house and educating kids on the dangers of medications, cleaning supplies and pesticides.

To help teach children to be safe with toxins, the American Association of Poison Control Centers and Merck-Medco, a prescription drug care company, have created Stop-and-Think Sam, a free education program available free at www.marckmedco.com. Sam is the poison control pooch whose T-shirt features a stoplight, reminding kids about safe and unsafe conditions.

Poison Prevention Tips

Store all drugs, chemicals, alcohol, cleaning supplies, insect sprays, gasoline, car products and paint in their original containers with safety caps. Lock them out of sight of children.

Never call medicine "candy."

Do not take medicine in front of children. They may mimic your behavior - to disastrous results.

Flush old medicine down the toilet.

Read and follow label instructions every time you take or give medicine.

Do not give kids your medicine or vitamins unless directed by their pediatrician. Many adult-strength medicines contain ingredients dangerous to children.

Always use a measuring spoon or dosing cup to give your child liquid medicines.

Inspect for imperfection. Do not give a medicine from a package that looks damaged or if the medicine looks odd.

Keep toxic plants out of reach of children.

Be prepared. Keep a bottle of Ipecac syrup and/or activated charcoal in the house; poison center officials may recommend use in case of possible poisoning.

Don't hesitate. Always call the poison center immediately if you think there has been a poisoning. Never wait to see what might happen.

Poison Hot Line

If you suspect a poisoning, call (800) 222-1222 immediately and you will be connected with the nearest poison control center. Have the container of the suspected poison with you, if possible.