It only takes a second – one distraction, one step into the other room – for an accident to happen, for a child, elder person with dementia or a family pet to get a hold of something not meant for them. The American Cleaning Institute reminds parents and caregivers to keep all cleaning products up and out of reach.
You’re changing diapers, fixing snacks, and answering the phone. You may not think an extra second about that cleaning product bottle or container that’s still open or unsecured. Clean for and with kids while keeping them safe.
If you have a young adult who is about to move out on their own, you may be wondering how they will manage their cleaning chores. Cleaning is an essential life skill that can affect their health, safety, and well-being. Share our tips and resources to help them prepare for college and independent living.
If you are caring for an individual who is diagnosed with or showing signs or symptoms of dementia, all cleaning products should be stored in a locked cabinet or a closet when not in use.
Safety Reminders
Be aware. Be alert. And help keep your family safe. Here are a few helpful reminders for moms and dads to help you keep your children safe:
- Conduct routine safety checks in your home to prevent accidents.
- Always read and follow label directions for proper use, storage and disposal.
- Store cleaning products in an area which is away from food and not accessible to young children or pets.
- Store products in their original containers and keep the original label intact. Product use and storage, disposal instructions, precautions and first aid instructions vary according to their ingredients. It can be dangerous to use a product incorrectly or to follow the wrong emergency procedures.
- Put cleaning products away immediately after use. This will help limit accessibility to young children and help prevent accidental spills.
- Keep buckets containing cleaning solutions out of the reach of young children.
- Properly close all containers, especially those with child-resistant caps.
- Have child safety locks installed on cabinets if you have young children in your home or if there are children who visit your home frequently.
- Make sure that potentially dangerous products have child resistant closures. Keep all cleaning products out of reach of young children — preferably locked up and stored in high places.
- Do not store household cleaners in cups, soda bottles, cans or bowls, which children associate with eating and drinking.
- Do not let your attention be diverted when using household cleaning products, electrical appliances, power tools, etc.
- If a spillage of any type occurs, clean it up immediately.
- Use safety plugs in electrical outlets to reduce the possibility of shocks.
- If you come in contact with something that might be poison, call your local poison center at 1-800-222-1222.