With the approach of the end of year celebrations, the health authorities are alerting parents to the risks of ingesting small objects, which may come from toys intended for children. These accidents, which particularly affect children under the age of 5, can lead to very serious, even fatal complications.
- From the Latin natalis (or “of birth”), the word “Christmas” is the elision of the phrase natalis dies, or “day of birth”.
- It was not until the 14th century that the word “Christmas” appeared as it is written today.
Some will open their Christmas presents tonight, others tomorrow morning. But beware: components can be dangerous for young children, without the parents necessarily being aware of it. “Serious and even fatal household accidents related to the ingestion of small objects have been reported in recent years. recall the DGS, ANSES and the DGCCRF.
What are the objects dangerous for children?
The articles generally involved in household accidents are:
– small batteries, called button batteries, contained in many products, such as toys or remote controls. One of these parts swallowed can cause lesions within a few hours due to the release of toxic substances into the esophagus;
– water beads or pearls: translucent and brightly colored, they are often used as decorative items or for hydrating plants, but can also be used in the composition of certain toys. If they have not reached their maximum size when the child swallows them, they can continue to swell in the digestive tract and cause intestinal obstruction, sometimes fatal;
– magnetic balls: approximately 3 to 5 mm, they can either come from gadgets such as “anti-stress” objects or building blocks intended for adults, or enter into the composition of certain toys intended for older children. Ingested, they can cause intestinal perforations.
What are the good reflexes to adopt to avoid accidents?
For your child to evolve without danger on a daily basis, do not leave small objects within reach: marbles, batteries, coins, water beads, decorative objects, etc. …; supervise your toddler when he is entertained and ensure that toddlers do not borrow toys from their elders; and finally be aware of certain objects attractive to children that are not amusement: gadgets, anti-stress utensils, etc. …
Before buying a toy, it is also important to check that it bears the CE marking; of carefully read all the warnings on the packaging; ofbuy products in stores or on well-known brand sites; of choose items suitable for the age of children (taking into account in particular the warning in the form of a logo indicating that the toy is not suitable for children under 36 months); and finally, for battery-powered trinkets, check that their compartment is secure and cannot be opened.
What to do in case of accidental ingestion?
If, despite everything, the child ingests a dangerous product, immediately call a poison control center which will give you medical advice and what to do (all numbers are available here: www.centres-antipoison.net). In the event of a life-threatening emergency (choking, loss of consciousness, etc.), call 15 or 112.
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