Protect your children from everyday dangers

Debbie Richardson, Oklahoma State University’s Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, said children have a higher threat for chemical reactions than adults because they are still growing inside.

“Young organs and developing immune systems are not as able to combat hazardous substances,” said the OSU Cooperative Extension parenting assistant specialist. “In addition, children consume more air, food and liquids per pound of body weight than adults.”

Hazards around the house include chemicals, pesticides, lead in paint and air pollution. Common household products such as bleach, oven, toilet and drain cleaners and paint products can contain toxic chemicals. Also, bug spray, flea collars, garden and weed pest killers need to be kept out of children’s reach.

“To cut down on the need for these pesticides in and around the home, eliminate food and water that attracts pests, block their entry to your home and use baits and traps as alternatives,” she said. “If a child gets a hold of a pollutant, call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. It is a good idea to keep this number posted near your telephone.”

Air pollution, such as mold and tobacco smoke, also are harmful to children by prompting asthma, causing breathing problems or ear infections.

Richardson suggests making your home and car smoke-free zones and discouraging others from smoking around children.

“If others smoke in your house, open windows or use exhaust fans to remove the smoke and circulate air in the home,” she said.

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas produced by vehicle exhausts and appliances such as gas heaters, water heaters, furnaces, stoves and dryers.

To protect your family from carbon monoxide, Richardson suggests installing a carbon monoxide detector near sleeping areas.

“Another key to good health is safe drinking water,” she said. “If a well or spring is used for drinking water, have it tested once a year.”

Richardson also recommends protecting children and infants under six months from direct sunlight.

“A really bad sunburn before the age of 18 increases the risk of skin cancer later in life,” she said. “Protect children from harmful rays by dressing them in light-colored clothing, firmly woven clothing with a full-brim hat and well-fitting sunglasses. Use a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher.”

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Katie L. Reim
Communications Specialist
Agricultural Communications Services
140 Agriculture North
Oklahoma State University
Stillwater, OK 74078
405-744-6792 (Phone)
405-744-5739 (Fax)
katie.reim@okstate.edu

Oklahoma State University, U.S. Department of Agriculture, State and Local Governments Cooperating: The Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability, or status as a veteran, and is an equal opportunity employer.