Protecting children: Doncaster launches safety campaign

FAMILIES in Doncaster are being urged to take action to protect their children from the dangers of cleaning products as part of a national campaign.

The Take Action Today Put Them Away campaign has now been launched in the borough following its rollout in other parts of the UK.

In Doncaster, accidental poisonings accounted for 25 emergency admissions for children aged four or under between 2018/19 and 2020/21.

As part of the campaign, a magnetic notepad featuring key safety advice will be handed out to thousands of families by health visitors and children’s centre staff.

Ashley Martin, RoSPA’s public health adviser, said: “The notepad acts as a constant reminder in family kitchens to store cleaning products out of reach, out of sight and in a locked cupboard.

“Due to their inquisitive nature, children under the age of five are most at risk of accidentally swallowing or getting household cleaning products, like liquid laundry capsules, into their eyes.

“Even products with a child-resistant closure cannot guarantee safety - they only reduce the risk by delaying access to the product.”

Zoe Parker, Doncaster 0 to 5 Service Manager at Rotherham Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust, said: “The campaign will enhance our home safety discussions, raise awareness, and help prevent emergency admissions.”

Advice includes:

Storing household cleaning products out of reach of children, preferably in a locked cupboard

Always storing chemicals in their original containers

Never piercing or breaking laundry capsules or tablets

Always closing the lid of any product

In the event of an incident, follow advice on the product pack and seek medical attention.