Every year thousands of children are victims of accidental ingestion of hazardous chemicals and substances such as arts and crafts supplies (paint, glue, magic markers, etc.), cleaning products and common household products. Children, particularly very young ones, have not yet learned "safe" and "unsafe" substances or objects and merely see everything as "interesting". Exposure to hazardous chemicals and substances can be through inhaling, ingesting, direct skin contact or eye contact. The most common way children are exposed to hazardous chemicals and substances is by ingestion since virtually everything they pick up will go right to the mouth.

To protect your children from accidental exposure to hazardous chemicals and substances, follow these rules:

* Lock all potentially poisonous substances out of reach and out of sight of your children
* Follow all safety rules for administering or taking medicine
* Purchase products with childproof packaging
* Make it a habit to return hazardous items to safe storage immediately after each use
* Post emergency and poison control numbers in a visible place 
* Have all staff trained in the area of First Aid and CPR
* Read labels on products to know chemical hazards
* Opt for the least hazardous product that can get the job done
* Don't over use products, only use the amount needed to do the job
* Always wear protective clothing, gloves and safety glasses
* Only use products in a well ventilated area away from children
* Avoid mixing chemicals
* Put "POISON" labels on all poisonous products