Why are so many poisonings related to children under age 6?
Children under age 6 are always exploring the world around them. This is the way they learn. It is normal behavior and should be allowed, when safe. But what children see and can reach, they often put in their mouths. Parents and other caregivers must watch for this. They must teach children not to put strange things in their mouths. As children begin to move and do more, risks increase. They can reach medicines and household products wherever they are stored. When children are crawling, they can find such products as drain cleaners stored under a kitchen sink or on the floor. As soon as children can stand, they can reach products on low tables. They can reach medicines in purses on beds. When children start to climb, they can reach medicine on counters or in medicine cabinets. These products should be locked up. They should be kept out of the child’s reach even when safety containers are used. They should be locked up even when safety packaging is used. Never leave medicine or a house
