Editorial 3-22
Poison warning messages must get through
The old adage that kids will be kids is good and well when it comes to such things as game playing and even harmless mischief.
But when it comes to some other things, parents and other caregivers have an ongoing and vital responsibility to keep youngsters safe from hazards they might get into.
One such area is poison control and the need for every kid to know that poisonous materials are simply and always out of bounds.
Health Canada has designated March 20 - 26 National Poison Awareness Week, a time set aside to educate children about the danger signs and what to do if a poisoning occurs.
Like parents and caregivers across Canada, those in West Central Alberta would do well to use this week to make sure all household poisons are well and truly out of reach of children.
Under Canadian law, poisonous materials of all kinds must contain warning labels that are clear and concise. Knowing how to recognize those warning labels and how they should always be obeyed can be a big part of keeping kids safe.
There are a few simple messages every kid should be taught when it comes to poison warning labels and symbols:
• Hazard symbols mean Danger! Do Not Touch!
• Hazard symbols can be found on containers in the house, in the garage, in the yard and at school;
• Hazard symbols can be different colours and sizes
• Hazard symbols are always on the front of the container and near the bottom of the label;
Despite the warnings, poisonings do occur and making sure kids know what to do about them is also vitally important.
“Children should know there are many people who can help in an emergency,” says Health Canada. “If there are grown-ups nearby like parents, grandparents, caregivers, babysitters, teachers, Block Parents or group leaders, they can go to these people for help.
“Children should also learn to call the emergency services number in their community. This could be 911 or another designated number.”
Children should be told that situations that might be emergencies include someone choking or having difficulty breathing, someone who won't wake up, someone who ate or drank something that is making them very sick, or someone complaining of a burning feeling to the skin or eyes.
Children should be told that if they are not sure if it's an emergency, they should always call for help.
There are some things kids can figure out for themselves – but poison control isn’t one of them, and as such it’s up to parents and caregivers to make sure these vital safety messages get through.
