Photo Courtesy of the National Pesticide Information Center
Millions of kids get sick every year from ingesting or inhaling poisonous substances. This month is Poison Awareness Month and I wanted to discuss ways to keep your kids away from the products that could make them sick. When you’re in an RV, you have a limited amount of storage space so you may have cleaning bottles, or medications out in the open. Here are a few tips to keep them out of the reach of your little ones.
Keep your cleaning supplies locked up
Those cleaning supplies (Windex, laundry detergent, bathroom cleaner, etc..) are a common cause of children getting sick. If you just keep it underneath your sink without a child-proof lock, you’re inviting those rugrats in. Kids love to explore their surroundings and keeping all of those toxic chemicals in one spot, with a good child-proof lock is a great idea. It may be a nuisance for us to get to them in a hurry, but it’s worth it to keep your kids and grandkids out of their reach.
Keep those medicines out of reach
Another common cause of children being poisoned is prescription drugs. Even if you just set your pill bottle down for a minute to get a glass of water, your child could easily ingest a lethal amount of drugs. Always keep them out of reach and educate your little ones about the dangers of taking those prescription drugs.
Carbon monoxide detectors are worth it
Carbon monoxide, or CO, is an odorless, colorless gas that can cause sudden illness and death. It is found in combustion fumes, like those produced by cars and trucks, small gasoline engines, stoves, lanterns, burning charcoal and wood, and gas ranges and heating systems. Carbon monoxide from these sources can build up in enclosed or partially-enclosed spaces, such as RVs. A good quality carbon monoxide detector is a must-have for any RVer.
Keep important numbers handy
Make sure you have poison control and emergency numbers handy. If you don’t know them where you are going, contact the RV park ranger and they will be able to supply you with the necessary information. If you suspect someone in your traveling party has been poisoned, don’t hesitate to contact emergency services or poison control services (1-800-222-1222).
Let’s make sure none of our kids and grandkids get sick on our watch. Keep those toxic chemicals and fumes away from them!