Tips for Teens

Why do babysitters/teens need to know about poisoning?
Caring for children is a great job, but keeping children safe is a serious and important part of babysitting. Poisoning is one of the most common childhood injuries. Most of the time poisoning happens right at home. Children who are between the ages of eight months and six years old are the most likely to be poisoned. Poisons can look like things that are good to eat and drink. They can come in many colors and forms including solids, liquids, sprays or gases. Young children are curious. They like to put things in their mouth, especially if they look colorful or smell nice.

What are some common poisons?
Here’s a list of SOME poisonous products that may be found in and around the home:

• medicines
• iron pills
• cleaning products
• laundry products
• nail glue remover and primer
• lighter fluids  
• batteries  
• bug and weed killers
• cigarettes  
• alcohol  
• mouthwash  
• plants (indoor and outdoor) 

How can children be kept safe from poisons?
You can help keep children safe by following these safety tips:

• keep children where you can see them at all times, even when you go to answer the door or telephone. Never leave young children alone, not even for just a minute!
• all medicines and household cleaning products should be stored in locked cabinets, out of the reach and sight of children. Do not leave poisons on a counter or in an unlocked cabinet.
• never carry something that can be poisonous, such as a medicine, in a purse where children may find it.
• safety latches on drawers or cabinets, and child resistant caps on bottles, are helpful in keeping poisons out of the hands of children. But remember, they are not “child-proof” and do not substitute for your careful and constant supervision.
• remember the BEFORE, WHILE, and AFTER rule:
• BEFORE using a cleaning product, read the instructions on the bottle.
• WHILE using a cleaning product, never leave it alone. A child may find it.
• AFTER using a product, put it back in a locked cabinet. Make sure the container is closed tightly.
• if you are asked to give medicine to a child, follow the instructions on the bottle. After using the medicine, return the bottle to a safe storage place right away. Never leave a child alone with the medicine.

What information about each child should you have? 
Before parents leave you in charge of a child, make sure they write down some basic information such as:

• each child’s age and weight
• any allergies or medical conditions
• their doctor’s name and telephone number
• how the parents can be reached in an emergency