As a babysitter or child care provider, you play an important role in keeping children safe. Poisoning is one of the most common childhood injuries, and most poisonings happen at home. Children between 8 months and 6 years old are at the highest risk.
Young children are naturally curious. They explore by touching, tasting and putting things in their mouths. Many poisons look and smell appealing — bright colors, sweet scents and interesting containers can easily attract a child.
That’s why it’s important for you to be prepared.
Save the Kentucky Poison Center phone number now: 1-800-222-1222
Common Poisons Found in Homes
Many everyday household items can be dangerous if swallowed, touched or inhaled. These include:
- Alcohol
- Batteries (especially small button batteries)
- Bug and weed killers
- Cigarettes and vaping products
- Cleaning products
- Eye drops
- Indoor and outdoor plants
- Laundry detergents and pods
- Lighter fluid
- Makeup and cosmetics
- Medicines (prescription and over the counter)
- Mouthwash
- Nail polish and remover
- Vitamins and iron supplements
Always assume that anything not meant for children could be harmful.
How You Can Help Prevent Poisoning
Here are simple steps you can take while babysitting:
Closely Supervise
- Always know where the children are and what they’re doing, especially if you briefly step away (such as when answering the door).
- Remember that children can move quickly and climb unexpectedly.
Think Like a Curious Child
- Expect children to explore.
- Be aware of what they can reach based on their age and abilities.
Keep Harmful Items Out of Reach
- Never leave cleaning products, medicines or cosmetics on counters.
- Put items away immediately after using them.
- Keep your purse or backpack out of reach; it may contain medications, vitamins, makeup or other unsafe items.
Be Careful With Medicine
- Only give medication if the parents have clearly instructed you to do so.
- Follow directions exactly.
- Tightly secure the cap after use.
- Immediately put the medicine away— never leave it unattended.
- Never call medicine “candy” to encourage a child to take it.
Before Parents Leave
Ask the parents to write down:
- The child’s age and weight
- Allergies or medical conditions
- The child’s doctor’s name and phone number
- How to reach the parents in an emergency
Having this information ready saves valuable time in an emergency.
If You Think a Child Has Been Poisoned, Stay calm. Act quickly.
Call 1-800-222-1222 right away.
Do not wait for symptoms. Many poisonings can be safely managed at home with trained guidance.
When you call, a poison specialist (nurse or pharmacist) will ask for:
- Your name and phone number
- The child’s name
- Your relationship to the child
- The child’s age and weight
- The name of the product involved
- How and when the child came into contact with the product
- How the child looks and feels
The poison specialist will tell you exactly what to do next.
Be Prepared
- Save 1-800-222-1222 in your phone.
- Carry the number with you when babysitting.
- Don’t be afraid to call — we are here to help, even if you just have a question.
Parents feel more confident leaving their children with a babysitter who knows how to handle emergencies. Being prepared could make all the difference.