Keeping Hazards Out of Your Holidays
Amidst the mugs of hot chocolate, nights at the fireplace, and flurry of preparations, the winter holiday season also brings the potential for poisonings. Heed these tips from the Drug and Poison Information Center (DPIC), a service of Cincinnati Children's, to keep your holiday gathering from turning into a trip to the emergency department. Contact the DPIC 24 hours a day at 513-636-5111 or toll-free 1-800-222-1222 if you suspect a possible poisoning or have any questions.
Alcohol
Incidents of alcohol poisoning in children occur frequently during the holiday season, often because unfinished drinks are left out after parties where children might find them. Because of their small size, children are more likely to get alcohol poisoning than are adults. Put all alcohol away before going to bed.
Plants
Leaves and berries of holiday plants can look like a tasty treat to young children. The health risk depends on the type of plant and how much a child eats. In general, contact the DPIC if your little one taste tests any of the following: poinsettia, mistletoe, holly, Jerusalem cherry and cyclamen.
Essential Oils and Flavors
Some ingredients found in oils and flavorings can be poisonous. These products may have a high alcohol content or the potential to cause severe problems if swallowed. Beware of lamp oil, used in oil lamps and liquid candles, as well as flavorings used in baking. These can be harmful even in small doses, especially wintergreen oil which is extremely toxic. Call the DPIC if your child swallows any of these.
Dry Ice
Simply touching dry ice can damage skin, and trying to taste it can burn sensitive mouth tissue. If your child comes into contact with dry ice, flush the skin with lukewarm water. If your child swallows a piece, offer lukewarm water to drink and contact the DPIC.
Christmas Tree Ornaments
Many Christmas tree ornaments are made of thin metal, plastic, wood or glass that can cut or block the airway if a child chews on them. While the dry paint or coloring on these objects should not pose an immediate hazard, keep breakable ornaments and those made of small pieces out of the reach of small children. Call the DPIC if an ingestion occurs.
Disc (Button) Batteries
Cameras, watches, calculators and many holiday toys run on small disc batteries. A child who swallows a battery should be evaluated, which may include referral to an emergency department for X-ray location of the object. Problems usually occur only if the battery becomes lodged or ruptures. Call the DPIC if your child swallows a battery.
Non-Poisonous Items
Other products used during the holiday season are usually harmless, such as angel hair, candles, Christmas cactus, Christmas trees and evergreens, garland, tinsel, icicles, and snow spray or flock. If in doubt, call the DPIC.
