ACCIDENTAL POISONING

Poisoning is the fourth most common cause of accidental deaths in children.

Children less than 5 years of age, as well as adolescents, are prone to poisoning.

Accidental ingestions are most common in children less than 5 years old.

90% of all poisonings occur at home, the most common sites being the kitchen and the bathroom.

Unintentional poisonings occur most frequently when routines are disrupted, for example moving and vacations.

Child safety caps have helped decrease the number of poisonings; however, they are not 100% effective and should not give a false sense of security.

All potential poisons should be properly labeled, stored out of reach of children, and locked away.

Adolescent ingestions are more typically a result of suicidal attempts or experimentation with illicit drugs.

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