Safety
Issues
Accidental poisonings often occur when daily household routines become
disrupted, as it usually is during the holidays. Take a few minutes to
poison-proof your home and prevent accidental poisonings. If poisoning does occur,
immediately call the Maryland
Poison Control Center at 1-800-492-2414. You can also get poison prevention
materials by calling 1-410-706-8122.
Thanksgiving
Turkey that is not
thawed or cooked properly can ruin a happy holiday. Vomiting, diarrhea and
abdominal cramps occurring 2-24 hours after eating may be symptoms of food
poisoning. Most food poisonings are self-limiting, requiring little treatment
beyond drinking plenty of fluids. If symptoms persist or are severe, contact
your family physician. The home economist at your county's Extension Office can
provide information about proper preparation and food storage.
Christmas
- Alcohol (ethanol) is the major toxic
ingredient in aftershave, cologne, perfume and alcoholic beverages. It can
cause serious illness and even death, especially in young children.
- Angel hair is finely spun glass
which can cause cuts or irritation when handles or swallowed.
- Disc batteries for cameras,
calculators and hearing aids are small enough to be swallowed and, in some
cases, can break and open and cause poisoning.
- Bubble lights, which contain
methylene chloride, can cause poisoning if ingested in large amounts.
- Icicles or tinsel may be hazardous
when swallowed by causing choking.
- Ornaments are painted with nontoxic
paints unless they are very old. Cuts from broken balls and lights can
occur.
- Plants, such as holly and mistletoe,
are poisonous.
- Tree preservatives are usually
nontoxic sugar solutions. Check the label for special ingredients or
warnings.
Other Winter Hazards
- Antifreeze (ethylene glycol or
methanol) is extremely
poisonous and may result in severe poisoning and death
even in small amounts.
- Carbon monoxide is a colorless,
odorless gas produced in fires, from car exhaust systems, faulty home
heating systems and charcoal grills. Early symptoms of poisoning are
headache and dizziness. Get fresh air immediately if these symptoms occur.
- Ice melting granules, also known as
rock salt, road salt or halite, is poisonous if eaten in quantity.
- Medicines, especially cough/cold
preparations, headache and pain killers are frequently used during the
winter season. Keep them properly closed and stored safely out of the
reach of children. Take only as directed by your physician, pharmacist or
the label.
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