By Patrick Baron

PONTIAC – Knowing how to take care of yourself is one thing, but knowing what to do when there’s a child or animal in the house is an entirely different ballgame.

Erin Fogarty with the Livingston County Public Health Department was a recent guest on WJEZ’s Community Forum. As part of the Summertime Safety Series, Fogarty told WJEZ’s Todd Wineburner that parents need to be mindful of how to prevent their children from getting into any container or cabinet that contains hazardous or poisonous materials. She said cabinets that contain things like liquor and cleaning materials need to have child safety locks on them so they remain out of the hands of inquisitive children.

“Even medications that have the safety-proof lock, if a child is given enough time they can sometimes figure those out because they’re really, really smart,” said Fogarty. “We don’t want to give them the opportunity to play around with those bottles for very long so we want to make sure that those are away and they’re kept locked up.”

Fogarty said if your child has consumed anything that has poisonous chemicals to call (800) 222-1222 for the Poison Control Center. She also reminds pet owners to be aware of the types of chemicals that can be sitting on the ground in the house or in the garage. She said chemicals like antifreeze have a sweet taste but can be deadly. She encourages pet owners to keep chemicals locked away in a safe place.

“The rules that we apply to keeping our children safe will also apply to keeping our pets safe,” Fogarty explained. “Just be mindful of where we have those chemicals. Again, up off the ground so that any curious noses wouldn’t get into them and want a taste.”

Fogarty noted the number for poison control is different than the one for humans. She said if you suspect your pet has gotten into a chemical substance to call (888) 426-4435.

Patrick Baron can be reached at [email protected].