In 2008-09, 27 children in Suffolk aged five and under were admitted to hospital due to accidental poisoning.

During Child Safety Week (21 – 27 June) NHS Suffolk is alerting parents and guardians to the danger of poisoning within the home and highlighting some simple measures that could prevent serious illness or death to your child.

Dr Mashbileg Maidrag, an NHS Suffolk consultant in public health who leads on child safety, said: “The most common cause of accidental poisoning amongst children is medicines, with everyday painkillers being the most frequent culprit. Don’t be fooled into a false sense of security by thinking childproof tops will prevent any incidents – some three and four year olds can open them in seconds.”

It is not only medicines that can cause poisoning, as everyday cleaning products such as bleach and detergents left around the home can also cause illness and death. It is important to store cleaning products well out of reach of children, such as on a high shelf.

Dr Maidrag continued: “Get down on your hands and knees to spot the dangers from a young child’s point of view – for example cleaning products beside the loo or under the sink. And don’t forget that a young child can move quickly so if you are distracted when cleaning make sure any potentially harmful chemicals are placed well out of reach.”

Safety reminders to prevent accidental poisoning:

•    Don’t keep medicines within easy reach of children – store them in a lockable medicine cabinet
•    Take special care with brightly coloured medicines that may look like sweets
•    Take your medicine when your child isn’t around so they don’t copy you
•    Store all household cleaners out of sight of children on either a high shelf or in a locked cupboard
•    Don’t forget that cigarettes, mouthwash, alcohol and perfume can also cause poisoning

If you believe that your child has swallowed a harmful medicine or chemical then seek medical advice from your doctor or pharmacist or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

You can find out more about Child Safety Week by visiting www.childsafetyweek.org.uk

Issued by the NHS Suffolk Communications Team on 01473 770014
For more information about NHS Suffolk visit www.suffolk.nhs.uk

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