Poisoning hazards for back-to-school, fall season

The fall season brings different poisoning hazards, and with children going back-to-school the potential for different types of accidental poisonings increases. The Florida/USVI Poison Information Center–Jacksonville would like to emphasize the poison proofing of homes and classrooms during this change in seasons.

As the weather changes and school starts, young children will be spending more time indoors, often leading to the exploration of the kitchen, medicine cabinets, garages and closets. Younger school age children may now come in contact with various glues, inks, crayons, paints, felt tip markers, chalkboard cleaners and other potentially toxic arts and craft supplies. While exposure to the majority of these substances may result in only limited minor effects, larger and/or repeated exposures to some of these can result in a more serious illness.

Likewise, as the weather gets cooler, we begin using gas or oil furnaces, kerosene heaters, or other methods to heat our homes. All devices of this type should be inspected for proper ventilation and operation following the summer layover as any obstruction (i.e. bird or animal next) made in the flue can quickly cause a backup of carbon monoxide into the home. As carbon monoxide is very dangerous, this process, as well as the installation of a carbon monoxide monitor can save your family. Never use charcoal grills or gas stoves to heat your home.

Some of the more common fall poisoning hazards are discussed below. Knowledge of these potential fall hazards can keep your family safe during this fall season.

• Carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless and very toxic gas, may be produced by generators, car and truck exhaust leaks, malfunctioning furnaces and gas fueled appliances, wood stoves, gas operated hot water heaters or by burning charcoal indoors. Symptoms may resemble the flu, and include fatigue, sleepiness, headache, nausea and vomiting.

• Car antifreeze has a sweet taste and children and pets may quickly drink antifreeze in large amounts. A small ingestion of even a teaspoonful can potentially cause serious illness and death.

• Cough and cold medications are often pleasant tasting, thus children may potentially drink large amounts. These medications may also contain cough suppressants, decongestants or antihistamines, which can cause agitation or drowsiness in a child. Some of these medications contain aspirin, acetaminophen, or alcohol. Large ingestions of aspirin can cause an upset stomach, sleepiness, nausea, vomiting, thinning of the blood and seizures. Acetaminophen causes nausea, vomiting, and liver damage if taken in excess. Lastly, alcohol may cause drunkenness, low blood sugar levels or seizures in children.

• Chewable vitamins are often multi-flavored and colorful. Many vitamin formulations contain Iron, which can be dangerous if ingested in large amounts. Early symptoms include upset stomach, nausea and vomiting.

• Plants can be potentially toxic, too. Symptoms include mild eye, mouth, skin irritation and an upset stomach. The severity of the symptoms will depend upon the type and amount of the plant ingested. Taking the following precautions can help reduce poisonings:

  • Learn and label the names of plants in and around your home
  • If unable to identify a plant, a small clipping can be taken to a local nursery for identification
  • Raking and burning certain leaves/plants can be poisonous
  • During the fall season, berries may fall to the ground increasing the potential for a child to ingest the berries

If you suspect a poisoning has occurred, or if you have questions concerning poisonings, immediately call the Poison Center Help line toll free, 24 hours a day at 1-800-222-1222 and a Specialist in Poison Information will assist you. Don’t waste time on the Internet; call the Poison Center for the right answer the first time.

The Florida/USVI Poison Information Center–Jacksonville is a cooperative effort between the University of Florida College of Medicine, Shands Jacksonville, the University of Florida Health Science Center Jacksonville, and the State of Florida, Department of Health, Children’s Medical Services. The Florida/USVI Poison Information Center–Jacksonville is designated as an accredited regional poison control center by the American Association of Poison Control Centers.