We should not drop our guard on this one. Kids are curious creatures. This makes keeping button batteries away from them seem like a game where we try to outsmart each other. If we say ‘don’t pop that in your mouth’, sooner or later one of them is going to give it a try.
Button Batteries Are Part of Kids’ Lives
Button batteries are part of kids’ lives, as they demand active, not passive toys. Make sure all electric toys and gadgets in the house make it difficult to get at their batteries.
Keeping new button batteries away from kids is even more important, because they are fully charged. They should therefore be inside ‘kid-proof’ packaging. But once you unwrap them, then the alarm bells should really start ringing!
You see, the fact of the matter is that small, shiny button batteries attract young kids like sweets. This simple fact creates a serious risk at home! You need to keep those batteries out of reach and sight at all times.
What Can Happen If You Drop Your Guard
A child can easily swallow a button battery. Once swallowed, the battery can lodge in their throat or deeper down. An electrical current can flow that burns flesh where that battery touches it.
Mild damage can begin within two hours and may accelerate, leading to severe internal injury or even death. That is why quick prevention matters far more than treatment, including how you store your button batteries.
Simple Things To Do With Button Batteries
Keeping button batteries away from kids, means reducing this risk with a few easy habits:
- Store all spare batteries in a locked drawer or high cupboard.
- Check that button battery compartments close securely with screws.
- Dispose of used batteries immediately in a safe container.
- Never leave loose batteries anywhere a child might find them.
- Don’t let used batteries pile up. Recycle all batteries right away.
Stay alert for warning signs. If a kid coughs, drools, struggles to swallow, or complains of chest discomfort seek medical help right away. Mention the possibility that they may have swallowed a button battery.
More Information
Button and Coin Batteries Compared
