Poison Control’s Tips for a Safe Holiday

Among all the celebration, feasting and happiness that comes with the holiday season, the Nebraska Poison Control Center, which serves the state of Wyoming, says that the number of poisoning incidents involving children rises.

According to a release form the Nebraska Regional Poison Control Center, they receive calls about incidents involving cigarettes, batteries, holiday plants, bubble lights, angel hair, snow sprays, fireplace color crystals and food poisoning.  As a result the Poison Center is offering a few tips on Holiday Safety:

-Keep small children and animals away from seasonal plants such as mistletoe, holly, yew plants and poinsettias.  Poinsettias are not the fatal poison that they were once believed to be, but in large amounts, can cause upset stomachs.

-Alcohol is found in holiday drinks and in gifts such as perfume and cologne.  It is important to clean up immediately following all holiday parties.  Remove all items that may contain alcohol and keep out of reach of small children.  Remember to empty all ashtrays - it only takes a few cigarette butts to send a child to the hospital.

-Be mindful of icicles or tinsel.  Both can be a choking hazard if swallowed.  Angel hair, a product made from finely spun glass, can cause cuts or irritation when handled or swallowed.

-Visiting relatives may bring their medications.  Over 50% of the calls to the Poison Center involve medications.  Never leave medications on a nightstand- make sure to store these up and out of reach.

-Toys may contain button or disc batteries.  If swallowed they can become lodged and cause serious injury or death if not removed.  They may be found in games, watches remotes and musical greeting cards.

-Bubble lights are a Christmas decoration that, although not common, still spring up from time to time.  Because they are uncommon, children might find them more interesting.  The tubes on some bubble lights contain methylene chloride, a chemical that can cause drowsiness, upset stomach and even seizures.  It's a good idea to keep these lights up high and away from children.

-Post the telephone number of the Wyoming Poison Center and the number for your family physician near the phone.  If you suspect a poisoning has occurred, call the Poison Center or your physician before attempting any emergency treatment.

The Poison Center phone number is 1-800-222-1222.