MORGANTOWN — The West Virginia Poison Center is warning people to be mindful of the dangers this time of year.
It’s especially relevant now, when there are changes in schedules and guests in the home. The possibility for poisonings is heightened, the center said.
The West Virginia Poison Center highlighted a few potential concerns in a recent press release.
- Vintage decorations or toys: Vintage decorations and toys are making a comeback. Many vintage items can be found at yard sales or online. While these items are eye-catching on display, some vintage decorations and toys contain lead. These items should be kept up and away from children who may try sticking them in their mouths. The liquid inside vintage bubble lights can be harmful if the delicate light is broken. Angel hair, used for decoration embellishment, is dangerous for children and pets if consumed.
- Toys with small magnets: In recent years, toys with small, strong magnets have become popular, such as magnetic building sets, magnetic tiles and magnetic sculpture toys. These products can cause serious injuries if swallowed by a person or pet. If young children or pets are in the home, do not purchase toys with small, strong magnets that are loose or may come loose.
- Items with button batteries that are not secured: Disc batteries, also called button or coin batteries, can be dangerous if swallowed. Ensure children’s toys have a secured compartment for batteries (such as a compartment that requires a screwdriver to open). Items that contain button or coin batteries that are not secured, such as items intended for adults, should be kept away from children. Other items of concern include: Light-up plastic jewelry that may not have a secure compartment for batteries and may include extra batteries attached to the packaging and light-up holiday crafts that include a simple electrical circuit where a battery is only attached with tape. The button batteries on these items can be easily removed and swallowed by children or pets.
- Toys that absorb water: Also becoming popular in the last several years are toys that absorb water and expand, such as water absorbing balls or beads. Most of these items are colorful and may look like candy. These items become dangerous if a child or pet ingest them as they can expand in the digestive tract
If an ingestion of any of these products occurs, immediately call the West Virginia Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222. Do not wait for symptoms to appear.
