Some cleaning agents are as efficient on surfaces as they are dangerous when swallowed. Parents of young children should know how to minimise the risk of an accident. — MONIKA SKOWLIMOSKA/dpa
IF YOUR child swallows a cleaning agent or some other toxic substance, stay calm and call the emergency services for advice or an ambulance if they are in danger.
When you call, try to have the packaging of the substance your child ingested to hand, as most packaging has a recipe identifier starting with the letters UFI and followed by numbers and letters.
This so-called unique formula identifier is a code is required in the EU and other countries for products containing a hazardous mixture.
If you provide these details and of the hazard warnings listed on the packaging and the exact product name, the professionals handling your case will be able to respond more quickly.
Caution: Some measures do more harm than good. Never give your child milk to drink if they have ingested a toxic substance, even if you are trying to help, says Germany's Federal Centre for Health Education (BZgA).
Yes, liquids often help dilute poisoning but in many cases, milk can even accelerate the digestive process so that your child absorbs the poison through the intestines. It's better to give your child water, taking small sips.
Also, never give fluids to a child who is unconscious. And don't try to induce your child to vomit in any way as this can can make chemical burns even worse through renewed contact with the substance.
In eyes or skin
What to do if your child gets a toxic substance in their eye or skin? Adults and children alike can wind up getting toxic substances in their eyes or on their skin.
If that happens, dilute the poison with water. Thoroughly rinse the area, whether skin or eyes, in running water for at least 10 to 15 minutes. If your child's clothes are wet with the substance, remove them immediately.
Wear gloves during this process, if possible. If poison gets in someone's eyes, consult an ophthalmologist immediately after the rinsing process.
If a person has come into contact with a poisonous pesticide, wait for an emergency doctor if you don't get differing advice from an emergency hotline or health care professional.
Otherwise, you could endanger yourself by giving the person concerned artificial respiration.
If someone inhales toxic vapours, then give them fresh air immediately, opening the windows and doors. If you can, take the affected person outside.
Cleaning agents should always be locked away so that they do not fall into the wrong hands, particularly if there are children or people with dementia living in the household.
Small children in particular discover the world using their mouths, making them at particularly high risk of poisoning. Also, never decant cleaning agents or other chemicals into drinks bottles or other unlabelled packaging, as this can lead to confusion that could lead to someone ingesting a toxic substance. – dpa
