Poisoning can happen to anyone, anywhere, but children are particularly at risk as they enjoy exploring and putting things in their mouth as part of their normal development.
Prevention of poisoning includes storing chemicals, medicines and cleaning products in a locked or child resistant cupboard, out of reach and out of sight of children (at least 1.5m high). Put them away immediately after using or buying them. Locks and lockable cabinets are available at hardware stores.
Refer to medicines by their proper names. Do not confuse children by referring to medicines as lollies. Visitors bags may can medicines. Make sure these are kept well out of reach of children.
If you suspect that a child has been exposed to poison, do not try to induce vomiting. Do not wait for symptoms to occur. Take the child and the container with you to the phone immediately and call the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26 (24 hours a day in Australia). They will be able to give you first aid advice. It is helpful to know what the substance was and how much of the substance was taken. Do not ring the Poisons Information Centre in a medical emergency. Ring 000.