Happy Poison Prevention Week!

Yes, this is one of my favorite topics to talk about. In my home, I have made sure that the shampoos and detergents are out of my kids' reach. The closet door to the rest of the cleaning supplies is locked. I moved the medicines out of my top vanity drawer and placed them on a high shelf that I can barely reach myself. Of course, I checked to make sure none of them are expired. By the way, if you do have expired medicines, don't flush it all down the toilet. The EPA might come after you! Kidding, and ok, the Poison Control Center still recommends that you flush them, but think about the controversy about the water pollution not too long ago. It might be better to wrap and seal the medicines in various layers with plastic baggies and/or old containers and then throw them out in the trash. Here are some good tips about how to get rid of old medicines.

What are you doing to teach your kids about poison prevention? I'm going to try some of these lessons.

Candy is dandy, but medicine may not be

As tempting as it may be, do not tell children that medicine is candy to trick them into taking it. While you are busy with something else, your child may be opening the bottle and popping the "candy" or feeding it to a younger sibling. Maybe you can see the imprints on the "candy," but to a young child, the letters and numbers are meaningless. To them the pills look like the candy they like, so it must be candy. Next week is Poison Prevention Week (March 15-21) and every parent should take the time to make sure the home is poison-proof to prevent accidental ingestions. Poisons could be in the form of medicines, plants, cleaning supplies, batteries, makeup, carbon monoxide, and many others. Be sure to lock cabinet doors or place items where young ones cannot reach. If your curious toddler got into something, just call 1-800-222-1222, even if you are not 100% sure. These experts will take your call 24/7. Don't try to make your child vomit; that could cause more harm. If your child is breathing funny or is unconscious, call 911. Need tips on how to get your kids to take medicine? Talk to your pharmacist, or try these tips.