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Poisoning is a serious danger to small children. Bleach, insect and rat poison, paraffin (kerosene) and household detergents can kill or permanently injure a child.
Many poisons do not need to be swallowed to be dangerous. They can kill, cause brain damage, blind or permanently injure if they:
- are inhaled
- get onto the child's skin or into the eyes
- get onto the child's clothes.
If poisons are put in soft drink or beer bottles, jars or cups, children may drink them by mistake. All medicines, chemicals and poisons should be stored in their original containers, tightly sealed.
Detergents, bleaches, chemicals and medicines should never be left where children can reach them. They should be tightly sealed and labelled. They should also be locked in a cupboard or trunk or put on a high shelf where children cannot see or reach them.
Medicines meant for adults can kill small children. Medicine should only be given to a child if it was prescribed for that child and never be given to a child if it was prescribed for an adult or some other child.
Overuse or misuse of antibiotics can cause deafness in small children. Medication should only be used as prescribed by the health worker.
Aspirin is a common cause of accidental poisoning. It should be kept out of the reach and sight of children.
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