Preventative tips for grandparents to help keep children poison safe.

photo by Erik Van Der Neut with licensure rights at Creative Commons.com

It is estimated that over 10% of grandparents care for their grandchildren whether that be as the custodial parent or caring for the child/children during the day while the parents are working. According to a study conducted by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, 36% of unintentional poisonings related to a prescription medication involved a grandparent's medication.

Most grandparents live without children in their homes therefor they do not think about childproofing measures. Without the constant reminder of little children, it is easy to leave loose pills or medication bottles on countertops, the nightstand, inside handbags, and in bathrobe pockets. When grandchildren visit, it is easily forgotten what has been left out. It only takes a second for a toddler or infant to reach for the medications, put them in their mouth and swallow them.

Children are curious; it is up to adults to help keep children safe. Below you will find preventative methods that help reduce the possibility of poisoning. Please consider these suggestions:

Take medicines out of the container only when using them, otherwise put them in a place that is out of reach and out of sight to young children.
Avoid taking medications in front of young children. Children like to imitate adults.
Use child resistant caps whenever possible.
Refer to medicine by its proper name and never call it "candy".
Protect your grandchildren from toxic household products and plants. See "Home Check List" on how to child-proof your home.

Remember that child-resistant does not mean child proof, but it does help prevent many poisonings. However, even with precautions, poisonings sometimes happen. You can call the Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 for help. This is a 24 hour, free hotline staffed by specially trained and highly skilled pharmacists and nurses.