The HSE has issued a warning to parents about button batteries ahead of the festive period.
All batteries pose a serious threat to life if ingested, but these small button-like batteries can also be choking hazards.
Parents and guardians are urged to be aware of the dangers of button batteries as Christmas approaches.
At this time of the year, there are usually plenty of batteries around the house - whether they’re used for children’s toys or in Christmas decorations.
This means that parents, relatives and child-minders should all be aware of the dangers they pose to avoid disaster.
The HSE has issued a warning about batteries and said they can result in “serious harm” to children.
Button batteries are often found in musical cards and books, novelty decorations, flameless candles and other small electrical devices. They are small, coin-shaped batteries that can not only burn your insides but can also pose a choking hazard.
Cylindrical batteries can also be fatal if a child chews on them or if they are leaking battery acid.
Director of the National Poisons Information Centre at Beaumont Hospital in Dublin, Dr Edel Duggan said: “Everyday household items, unfortunately, can poison children. Parents and guardians should watch out for button and cylindrical batteries in toys, decorations and gadgets. Serious injury can occur if a child swallows a battery or puts a leaking one in their mouth.
“To help prevent injury, keep all spare and used batteries out of children’s sight and reach, and safely recycle used batteries. Keep products with batteries well out of reach if the battery compartment isn’t secured with a screw.”
If your child swallows a button battery, bring them straight to the nearest emergency department.
The HSE also recommends giving a child over the age of one two teaspoons of honey if they have swallowed a button battery. “This can protect the oesophagus from injury before the battery is removed in hospital. Only do this if they are able to swallow. Do not delay bringing them to hospital,” they said.
As well as button batteries, parents should also be cautious of the choking and strangulation hazards posed by unsafe toys or toys that are too advanced for young kids.
Dr Abigail Collins, National Clinical Lead in the HSE’s Child Health Public Health Programme and a public health consultant, said: “There are things parents, family members and Santa Claus can do to help make this special time of year a safe one.
“Look for the CE safety mark and check warnings on toys. Make sure children are playing with toys that are right for their age and developmental stage. Watch out for small detachable parts they can choke on, especially for young children who put things in their mouths. Keep items with strings out of reach – they are a strangulation risk.”
“The mychild.ie section of the HSE website has an extensive child safety section to help parents and carers to reduce risks to children all year round.”
If you think your child has been exposed to poison, call the Poison Information Line on 01 809 2166.
This service is available every day from 8am to 10pm, including Christmas Day. According to the HSE: “It gives urgent tailored advice to members of the public on whether medical treatment is needed following accidental poisoning. Outside of these hours, contact your GP or hospital. In an emergency, call 999 or 112."
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