The holiday season is full of festive activities! It is the time of year to be with family, eat delicious food, and….exchange presents! Studies show that 198,000 children under the age of 14 suffered toy-related injuries in 2020. So, during this time of gift-giving, we want to remind parents to be vigilant when it comes to toy safety.
Although toys have recommended ages, some children have access to toys because of their older siblings or other family members. It is important to always keep an eye on what items your small child has access to.
Button Batteries and lithium coin
These round batteries are typically found in toys for children along with household items such as remotes, watches, etc. These batteries are very dangerous when ingested. When the small battery encounters body fluids it develops a current. These currents produce sodium hydroxide. If the battery doesn’t move and is stuck in place this toxin burns a hole. Ingestion of a button battery is very dangerous and warrants evaluation in the emergency department immediately. Let your doctors know it could be a battery so they can perform particular x-rays.
Other important places button and lithium coin batteries can be found in your home.
- Key fobs
- Thermometers
- Remote Controls
- Watches
- Cameras
- Flameless Candles
- Calculators
Gifts
Choking hazards are all around when unwrapping gifts
- Bows / Ribbons
- Wrapping paper
- Bags
- Zip ties from toy boxes
The safest method is removing all items after opening gifts with family. One tip we suggest is to unbox your child’s gifts and then place them in gift bags. This will allow you to set them up and have them ready to go when your child is opening presents.
Poisonous Holiday Plants
- Mistletoe berries
- Holly berry
- Jerusalem cherry
Keep these plants out of reach from children. Ingesting them can cause vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and drowsiness.
IN AN EMERGENCY
Also, if you suspect poisoning from holiday berries or other items contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222).
Little Spurs Pediatric Urgent Care opened in 2006 in San Antonio, Texas. With multiple locations in San Antonio and Dallas, they are open seven days a week with extended evening hours and see walk-in patients or through an online check-in system. They accept most commercial insurance and Medicaid plans.
