Preventing Poisoning

Every year, tens of thousands of calls are made to the Israel Poison Information Center, half of them about children under the age of 18.

An additional fact that may be surprising but is worth noting is that most poisoning cases occur at home when the child is not adequately supervised. This is due to, among other things, the fact that infants are naturally curious and tend to put various objects in their mouths. Crawling infants, along with others, reach for various places to open drawers or doors, when occasionally behind them there are vital items like medicines, detergents, or pesticides, which may be toxic and dangerous and potentially lead to hospitalization or death.

You can involve children in cleaning and tidying the house, but with close supervision and without using hazardous materials such as degreasers, toilet cleaners, and bleach.

Storage of hazardous substances

• Store cleaning agents, laundry detergents, pesticides, and medicines in a high and locked place to prevent children from reaching them.
• Ensure that the cabinet containing hazardous substances is closed after each time it is opened.
• After use, return items to their designated locations and, if possible, lock the cabinet.
• Numerous poisonings have occurred due to the storage of toxic substances in old drink bottles or unmarked containers. Therefore, store each item in its original package only. Some poisonings occur because pesticides are stored next to food. Therefore, it is crucial to separate the items and store them away from each other.

Cleaning agents and laundry detergents

You can have children participate in cleaning and tidying the house, but let them use water and soap only, with no hazardous substances. When you clean the house, make sure to keep these substances away from babies and children, and especially oil removers, toilet cleaning products and bleachers.

Medications

Medications account for about 40% of all poisonings among children. Almost all medications can be toxic if taken in doses higher than recommended, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal remedies.

Responsible Use of Medications

• To prevent errors when giving medications to children, it is important to follow these rules:
• Avoid distractions (mobile phones, TV, etc.) while giving the medication.
• Do not leave the child alone when medications are within reach.
• Always read the instructions carefully and follow them when using medications.
• If you are unsure or have a question about the medication, especially regarding the dose or timing, do not give it until you consult with a doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional.
• Store medications in a securely closed container, out of reach and sight of children. Medications kept in the refrigerator should also be stored in a well-closed, clearly labeled container.
• Medications are not toys! Many children can open safety caps, so medications should always be kept away from them and never used for play.
• For oral medications (including iron or vitamin drops): first pour the dose into a spoon, then give it to the child. Do not pour directly from the bottle into the child's mouth.
• Do not present medications to children as candy or call them vitamins to convince them to take them, as this can make children curious and more likely to try to find and eat them.
• Keep bags containing medications out of children’s reach.

What to Do in Case of Suspected Poisoning

If There Are Signs of Poisoning

Call Magen David Adom immediately at 101. They will guide you on the steps to take.

If There Are No Signs of Poisoning

Contact the National Poison Information Center at 04-7771900.

Important:

• In case of skin or eye exposure, rinse the area thoroughly with plenty of running water.
• If your child stops breathing, is having seizures, or shows changes in consciousness, contact Magen David Adom immediately at 101 and follow their instructions.
• Do not induce vomiting or give children any food or drink, unless instructed otherwise by the National Poison Information Center.

Keep the original container or any remaining product your child was exposed to so medical staff know how to treat them.