Poisoning Injury

Children are at significantly greater risk from poisoning death and exposure than adults because they are smaller, have faster metabolic rates and are less able to physically handle toxic chemicals.
Source: National SAFE KIDS Campaign®

Lead is hazardous to human health. Even small amounts of absorbed lead can be harmful to the intellectual and behavioural development of young children and infants. Health Canada advises Canadians to remove inexpensive jewellery that may contain lead from children who are likely to suck or chew on the items. Lead is found in both imported and Canadian-made jewellery and is available in a variety of shapes and sizes, from stores and vending machines. The items may be uncoated, metal-plated or coated with enamel.
Source: Health Canada Advisory, Health Canada Online January 2001

Poisoning ranks next to falls and motor vehicle collisions as the third most frequent type of injury leading to hospitalization in Canada. According to the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI), there were 28,581 poisoning cases admitted to Canadian hospitals in 1999-2000, out of a total 197,002 admissions for all injuries. Medications are the most common substances in all poisonings.
Source: Canada Safety Council website

To prevent poisoning in children, be aware that poisonings can occur when:

• there are changes in the daily routine such as holidays, illnesses, moving, vacations, stressful times and celebrations
• a poisonous product is being used
• potentially harmful products are carelessly or improperly stored (e.g. in purses)
• dangerous substances are not stored in their original containers
• package directions for products such as herbicides, insecticides, fertilizers and medications are not followed
• visiting a relative or friend or when they are visiting you
• children are hungry or thirsty

(These statistics do not include the countless number of children who are not hospitalized but are seen for poisoning injuries in emergency units and doctor’s offices across the country.)