How to Keep Medicine Out of Reach of Children
Children are resourceful and crafty, which means they can open child-resistant bottles much sooner than you might think. Taking simple precautions can help prevent accidental medicine ingestion and keep your kids safe.
Avoid Taking Medicine in Front of Young Children
Children imitate what they see. If they watch you take medicine, they might try to copy your actions later.
Additionally, never call medicine “candy” or anything similar. If you do, they’ll just want some too, which increases the risk of accidental poisoning.
Proper Medicine Storage Tips
To prevent medicine-related accidents, always:
- Keep bottles closed tightly after every use.
- Store all medications up and away, out of children’s reach.
- Use a locked cabinet or secure storage area.
- Be extra cautious when guests bring medications into your home.
What to Do If a Medicine Mistake Happens
Even with the best precautions, medicine mistakes can happen. If your child accidentally takes medication, don’t panic—help is available.
📞 Call the Missouri Poison Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222.
- Calls are free and 100% confidential.
- Specialists can answer questions about medication safety.
- Getting expert advice quickly could save a life.
