Carbon Monoxide (CO): Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, tasteless dangerous gas. It can be produced by:
- Burning charcoal indoors
- Gas-fueled water heaters
- Heating a home with a gas stove
- Improperly functioning gas furnace
- Vehicle exhaust
- Wood stoves
CO can mimic other illnesses such as the stomach flu or food poisoning. Early symptoms are headache and feeling sick to your stomach and/or vomiting. Other symptoms can also include drowsiness and
dizziness. Always keep a CO detector in your home.
Antifreeze: Antifreeze is available as radiator antifreeze (often contains ethylene glycol) or windshield wiper solution (contains methanol). Both are highly toxic substances.
- The colors and sweet taste may be attractive to young children.
- Keep antifreeze products out of the reach of children.
- Always keep antifreeze in its original container and stored in locked cabinets.
Halloween: The Nebraska Regional Poison Center wishes you a happy and safe Halloween. Listed below are Halloween tips for parents with youngsters.
- Check treats thoroughly before allowing children to eat them.
- Check wrappers for holes, tears and signs of rewrapping or tampering.
- Throw away unwrapped candy or fruits if the source is unknown.
- Be watchful of glow sticks and jewelry. If one breaks, avoid skin, mouth and eye contact.
- If your children use make-up rather than a mask, watch out for possible skin irritation, such as a rash or itching. If this occurs, remove the make-up immediately and thoroughly cleanse the area with soap and water.
- Dress children in light-colored clothing, short enough to prevent tripping and apply reflective tape for added safety.
- Carry a flashlight after dusk and watch for cars. Try to finish before dark.
- An adult should accompany young children and Halloween visits should be limited to familiar, local neighborhoods.
- Make sure children can see well enough through facemasks to prevent falls.
- Dry ice can be used in punch bowls but should not be used in individual glasses. Frostbite can occur if skin comes into contact with dry ice.
Call the Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 and talk immediately to a Registered Nurse or Pharmacist 24/7/365
