Everything ready for your vacation? Beware of accidental poisoning; Here’s how to keep your kids safe

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration and precious moments with loved ones. But amidst the festivities lurks a hidden danger: accidental poisoning.

More than 90% of all poison exposures occur at home, with more than half of these exposures occurring in children under six years of age. From seasonal plants to cleaning products, many hazards can often be overlooked, especially when there are curious little ones around. Taking a few simple ones precautionssuch as those offered by the Nebraska Regional Poison Control Center, can make your vacation stress-free by protecting your family from unexpected dangers.

Here are some things to be careful about:

Medicines: Accidental swallowing of medicine is one of the main causes of poisoning in young children. During holiday gatherings, when guests of all ages may visit, it is especially important to be vigilant about where medications are stored. Always make sure medicines are kept safely out of reach and sight, as curious children may mistake pills or liquids for sweets or treats.

Cleaning products: Cleaning products such as disinfectants and cleaners should never be stored on the counter, even though it may seem convenient. If they are stored in easily accessible places, children may explore them and accidentally swallow them or splash them on their skin or eyes.

Alcohol: Alcoholic drinks are an inevitable part of holiday gatherings. Keep all items containing alcohol, including hand sanitizers and perfumes, out of the sight and reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.

Nicotine: Nicotine exposure in children can have serious and life-threatening consequences. Early symptoms include agitation, sweating, nausea, vomiting, rapid heartbeat and seizures. At higher doses, the effects may worsen to slow heart rate, low blood pressure, respiratory failure, and even coma, making immediate medical intervention necessary.

Food: Be careful when cooking and storing food during gatherings. When preparing meals containing frozen meats or other products, always defrost them in the refrigerator and never on the counter to avoid food poisoning. Once you’ve finished your meal, refrigerate or freeze leftovers within two hours because bacteria multiply quickly at room temperature and can make you sick.

Plants: Seasonal plants such as mistletoe, holly, yew and poinsettia, which often appear in holiday decorations, may seem harmless but can be harmful if consumed.