Here are five of the top ten holiday poisoning hazards, all of which are preventable if the right precautions are taken. Small amounts can be harmful, even fatal to children. Alcoholic beverages, or almost empty glasses, left within reach of children can be dangerous. Other products that contain high concentrations of alcohol include hand sanitizers, mouthwashes, perfumes, aftershaves, and cold medicines. Keep these out of reach and out of sight.
Cigarettes contain nicotine, which, if ingested, can cause seizures and cardiac symptoms.
Just eating three butts, or one entire cigarette, can mean a very serious poisoning for a child. Ask visitors to store these items out of reach of children and pets. And, when you visit someone else s home, be aware that they may store medicines and cleaning products under a sink or in accessible cabinets. Also, keep an eye out for medications kept on bedside tables. During the holidays our normal eating schedules may be disrupted, Hungry children and pets are more likely to put things in their mouths that are not eatable products.