Household Products can Poison Kids
Common household products, such as bleach and laundry detergent were a leading cause of unintentional poisonings in New York City last year, prompting a fourth of all calls to the city's Poison Control Center. The city's Poison Control Center received nearly 70,000 calls in 2010, 40% of which were for children under five. About 90% of poisonings occur in the home.
Keep cleaners, medicines and cosmetics out of children's reach or locked in cabinets. If you suspect a poisoning has happened or have questions about medicine safety, call 212-POISONS right away. Do not wait for symptoms. The poison specialists are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. All calls are free of charge. Translator services are available.
Store household cleaners and pesticides away from children. Learn more about preventing unintentional poisonings.
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Top Reasons for Calls to Poison Control Center for
Children Under Five (2010)
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Hazard
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Examples
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Number of Calls
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1. Cosmetic/personal care
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hand soap, shampoo
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2,362
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2. Household Cleaners
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Bleach, ammonia, detergent
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1,677
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3. Analgesics
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ibuprofen, acetaminophen
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1,554
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4. Foreign Bodies
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silica packets from bags/shoes
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1,456
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5. Topical
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diaper rash cream, petroleum jelly
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1,288
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6. Vitamins
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tablets
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672
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7. Pesticide/Rodenticides
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bait pellets
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593
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8. Arts/Crafts
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crayons, glue
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561
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9. Cough & Cold
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cough syrup, cold medicine
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513
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10. Antihistamines
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tablets
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447
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