Description

Concentrated laundry detergent pods (small packs) can pose a significant risk of poisoning for small children. Many children exposed to one of these packs needs to go to the Emergency Room. Poisoning can be prevented by taking a number of steps.


 

Reasons why children are attracted to them:

(1) small size

(2) colorful appearance

(3) shown in a clear container that resembles a candy jar

 

Reasons why the pods are especially hazardous:

(1) the chemicals are highly concentrated

(2) the packs burst if bitten into making it easier to swallow or bein exposed to the chemicals

 

A child exposed to a detergent pod may develop:

(1) nausea and vomiting

(2) oral and esophageal irritation

(3) cough (from inhalation)

(4) ocular irritation including red eye and corneal damage

(5) drowsiness or lethargy

(6) cutaneous edema

(7) choking

 

How to prevent intoxicationw with a detergent pod:

(1) Keep the pods and the container out of reach, preferably in a locked cabinet.

(2) Secure the lid so that it is difficult for a child to open the container.

(3) Do not leave single pods sitting out.

(4) If the container is clear then cover the outside.

 


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