Start here · BabiesPoisoning and swallowed objects
Start here · Babies

Poisoning and swallowed objects

2 min read

Call 911

Babies explore everything with their mouths. Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222. It's free, confidential, 24 hours a day, with help in Spanish.

What to do

  1. Take out anything still in the mouth and keep the container.
  2. Call 1-800-222-1222 even if there are no symptoms. Have the container, the child's weight and the time ready.
  3. On the skin: remove clothing and rinse with water for 15 to 20 minutes. In the eyes: rinse with lukewarm tap water for 15 to 20 minutes.
  4. Button battery in children 1 year or older: if it was swallowed less than 12 hours ago and the child can swallow, give 2 teaspoons (10 mL) of honey every 10 minutes, up to 6 times, on the way to the ER. Never honey under 1 year.
  5. Follow Poison Control's instructions.

What not to do

  • Don't make the child vomit, and don't give salt, oil or syrup of ipecac.
  • Don't wait for symptoms to appear.
  • Don't give milk or water unless told to.
  • Don't delay going to the ER to look for honey.