If you’re a parent, you know that kids are curious. They explore, touch, taste and test everything around them, which can be dangerous when it comes to certain household items.  

That’s where the Wisconsin Poison Center comes in. They offer a free, 24/7 medical hotline that can be accessed at 1-800-222-1222 for any poison questions or emergencies. They are there to help answer your questions and guide you through what to do if your child gets into something they shouldn’t. But first, you might be wondering, what kind of things should I be watching out for? Here are the most common items that lead to poison exposures in kids, and how you can help prevent them.  

Ages 0-10: The Curious Years 

Kids are naturally curious and love to explore, especially by touching things or putting things in their mouths. 

Here are the most common poison hazards parents should keep an eye on with younger children:

1. Pain medications: Pain meds are one of the most common reasons parents call the Poison Center. This includes common pain medicines like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin) and prescription painkillers like hydrocodone or tramadol. It’s easy to forget a bottle on the counter or drop a pill on the floor, but even a small amount of unneeded medication can be dangerous for kids. Keep all medicine in a locked cabinet, in their original container and stored up high and out of sight and reach of children.  

2. Personal care products: Items like toothpaste, hand sanitizer and makeup can be harmful if swallowed. These are things kids see you use every day, so it’s natural for them to want to copy you. Store personal care items up high and out of children’s reach, ideally in a locked cabinet. Always put them back right after use and try not to leave them sitting out on the counter. 

3. Cleaning products: Bleach, laundry pods and disinfecting sprays can be dangerous and even a splash in the eyes or on the skin can be harmful. These items often look and smell appealing to kids due to the bright colors, fun shapes and fruity scents. After cleaning, make sure to put products away right away and keep them stored in a locked cabinet or up high and out of reach and sight of a child.

4. Small objects and toys: Button batteries, magnets and water beads may be tiny, but they can cause big problems if swallowed. Some can even burn through tissue or cause blockages. Try to keep small items out of reach and secured in drawers or containers with safety locks. If your child swallows something, call the Wisconsin Poison Center right away. If your child is having trouble breathing or becomes unresponsive, call 911. 

5. Dietary supplements: Wisconsin Poison Center gets many calls about kids eating melatonin gummies or other supplements because they look and taste like candy. Always store supplements in their original containers and put them away right after use. If your child eats more than they should, call the Wisconsin Poison Center and have the container handy when you do. 

Ages 11-18: The Experimental Years 

Older kids face different risks with regards to medications, mental health and peer pressure. Here are some of the most common poison hazards for teens: 

1. Pain medications: Because these medicines are easy to find at home, they’re also easy to misuse. Talk with your teens about how and when to take medicine safely and why taking “just a little extra” can still be dangerous. Even over-the-counter painkillers can cause serious health problems if misused. Keep medicines locked up and keep track of how much is in each bottle. 

2. Prescription medications for mental health: Many teens take medications for anxiety, depression or other mental health needs. While these medicines can help when used correctly, they can be harmful if taken incorrectly. Lock up all prescription medications and encourage open conversations about mental health and safe medication use. In other cases, teens may experiment by trying someone else’s medication. Ask visitors to keep their medications out of reach and talk to your teens about the dangers of taking medicine that isn’t theirs.

3. Antihistamines: Allergy medications like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) are easy to get, and some teens may take too much for the sedative effects, for a social media challenge or to get high. Remind your teen that “over the counter” doesn’t mean “safe in any amount.” Keep these medications in a secure spot and pay attention to any changes in your teen’s behavior.

4. Street drugs: Teens may experiment with drugs out of curiosity or peer pressure. Cannabis edibles are becoming more common, and their packaging often looks like candy or snacks, which makes accidental ingestion easy for both teens and their younger siblings. Talk openly about the risks of drug use and how to spot look-alike products. Keep anything that could be harmful locked up and out of sight. If you suspect your teen has taken something or is showing strange symptoms, call the Wisconsin Poison Center for help. 

Accidents can happen in even the most careful households because almost anything can be poisonous if it’s used in the wrong way, wrong amount or by the wrong person. If your child ever swallows, inhales or touches something you’re unsure about, call the Wisconsin Poison Center at (800) 222-1222. When you call, you’ll talk directly with trained nurses or pharmacists who can help you decide what to do next. The call is free, confidential and available 24/7. 

For more information on poison prevention, visit wisconsinpoison.org.