Children are naturally curious, and despite your best efforts, you can’t child-proof everything. Many prescription and over-the-counter medications come in child-resistant packaging, but that doesn’t mean they’re child-proof. Given enough time, most kids can open these bottles. Young children explore their world by touching, smelling and tasting, which can sometimes lead to poisoning emergencies.
We spoke with Bryan Kuhn PharmD, a pharmacist and clinical toxicologist with Banner Health, about when to call Poison Control if your child is exposed to a household danger.
Why you should call Poison Control
According to Dr. Kuhn, Banner Poison Control receives more than 55,000 calls each year. The Health Resources & Services Administration reports that more than 70% of cases can be managed over the phone, avoiding a doctor’s visit or hospital trip.
“We have a huge database of cases and regularly follow up days, weeks, and even months later to check on callers,” said Dr. Kuhn.
You should call Poison Control if:
- You suspect someone has come into contact with a poison.
- A person has taken an unknown medication or too much of a drug.
- Someone has overdosed and you’ve given a drug to reverse it.
- A bite or sting might be venomous.
- You need first-aid guidance.
Dr. Kuhn cautioned against searching online for answers. “Instead of self-diagnosing, call Banner Poison Control. Our experts consider your child’s height, weight and symptoms to provide real-time, specific advice.”
4 common poisoning emergencies
Swallowed poisons
Many poisoning cases involve common household products like paint thinners, cleaning products, laundry detergents and medications. If your child swallows something potentially harmful, call Banner Poison Control immediately. A nurse or pharmacist will assess whether your child needs emergency medicine or monitoring at home.
Skin contact with poisons
Young children often get into things they shouldn’t, from bug traps to spilled chemicals. Even substances like essential oils can cause skin irritation. Poison Control can guide you on first aid and whether a doctor’s visit is necessary.
Inhaled poisons
Exposure to fumes from cleaning products, paint thinners, carbon monoxide or pesticides can be dangerous. If your child has inhaled a toxic substance, get fresh air immediately and call Poison Control. Symptoms of poisoning from inhaled chemicals often appear right away.
Eye contact with poisons
Household cleaners, insecticides, and even glow stick liquid can cause eye irritation or injury. If your child gets a substance in their eyes, rinse with water for 15 minutes before calling Poison Control. Dr. Kuhn suggests using the shower if your child won’t stay still for an eye rinse.
Stay prepared
Keep the Poison Control number, 800-222-1222, saved in your phone and posted in your home.
Recommended reading
- 12 Everyday Objects That Aren’t Safe for Babies and Toddlers
- A Guide for Parents: The Best Ways to Give Medication to Children Safely
- 10 House Cleaning Safety Tips to Keep Your Home Fresh and Family Safe
Content in this article was updated on March 18, 2025.
