Poison Prevention Tips
(Extract from ‘Prevention of Childhood Poisoning’ Leaflet Produced by the Drug and Toxicology Information
Service, Zimbabwe)

Keep all medicines, personal care and household products where children cannot see them or reach them.

Keep medicines and all chemicals in their original, labelled, child-resistant containers.

Follow label instructions and warnings when giving medicines to children or when using chemicals.

NEVER call medicines by any other names, e.g. sweets or drink – make sure children know that medicine is medicine.

Do not take medicines in front of children because children imitate adults.

Store poisonous products away from food or drink to avoid confusion, and above the reach of children.

Try to know plants, insects and animals which may lead to poisoning or a toxic exposure.

Keep all plant bulbs and seeds where children cannot reach them.

Supervise children and never leave a child alone with a poisonous product.

Teach small children to ask an adult first before putting anything in their mouths.

Teach small children not to play around with creatures they find in the house or outside.

Do not allow children to continue playing alone outside after dark to prevent bites and stings.