Did you ever thing about what type of batteries are running your small remotes and electronics. I am afraid that I had not, until I found one in my grandson’s mouth. I had not taken the time to look and find out what was in his toys, in my remotes nor in small battery candles. I should have. Why? Well, for one, if a child (or animal) swallows a button battery, the kiddos can often still breathe and could just cough, drool or have difficulty swallowing thus the symptoms mimic other illnesses. Secondly, batteries, if stuck in the throat can cause minor to serious burns.
Per the tip sheet provided by Safe Kids Worldwide, there are three ways to minimize risks, if having children and button batteries in your home.
- Keep devices with batteries out of reach, in a secure location and lock away any loose batteries.
- If a child swallows a battery, head to the ER immediately and ensure that the child does not eat or drink. Also, do NOT induce vomiting.
- Share the information to other parents and caregivers.
If you would like more information, please call the National Battery Ingestion Hotline at 1 (800) – 498-8666.