British Columbia Drug and Poison Information Centre (BC DPIC)

Each season has special hazards and winter holidays are no exception. With the entertaining, gifts and decorations during the holidays, homes can be filled with bright and interesting things. Some can be toxic. Here are a few holiday hazards. If you suspect these substances have poisoned someone, call the BC Poison Control Centre using the 24 hour Poison Line.

ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES
Alcohol drinks can cause severe toxicity to a child. Symptoms include drowsiness, confusion and coma, vomiting and low blood sugar, especially in infants and young children.
CANDLES
Wax and synthetic candles have a low order of toxicity. Ingestion may result in diarrhea.
DISC BATTERIES
Button batteries often come with watches, cameras and toys. If swallowed these may lodge in the esophagus or airway and can be an emergency. An initial x-ray is needed to ensure the battery has passed into the stomach. If it passes into the stomach, the stool will need to be checked until the battery passes.
GLOW STICKS
Glow sticks have a low order of toxicity. Biting into these can result in mild oral irritation. A splash in the eye can cause immediate stinging and burning sensation. This generally does not result in burns to the eye.
ICICLES and TINSEL
These are made of plastic with a nontoxic aluminum colouring. Ingestion of a large amount could be a choking hazard.
LAMP OIL
Lamp oil is attractive to children because of its colour and fragrance. Ingestion of a small amount can be serious and lead to coughing, difficulty breathing and chemical pneumonia.
MEAT THERMOMETER
These contain a small amount of ethanol and a red dye. Ingestion of the liquid will not cause toxicity. If the thermometer breaks in the meat, remove that section of meat and any glass particles prior to serving.
PLANTS
Christmas cactus: This plant is nontoxic. Ingestion may cause minor abdominal pain, vomiting or diarrhea in young children.
Holly: Ingestion of large amounts of leaves or berries can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhea. Ingestion of a few berries may cause only mild symptoms.
Poinsettia: The irritant sap may cause mouth, skin or eye irritation. Serious toxicity is unlikely from ingestion of 1 or 2 leaves but oral irritation, nausea and vomiting may occur.
ROAD SALT
Commonly contains sodium chloride. Ingestion of less than one teaspoonful can cause vomiting but is unlikely to result in serious toxicity. Larger amounts can lead to severe vomiting, seizures and death.
SNOW SCENE GLOBES
Ingestion of the “snow” particles is nontoxic. The liquid is usually water, however, some globes contain toxic ethylene glycol. Contact your poison control centre if the liquid is ingested.
SNOW SPRAY
“Snow” particles are an inert plastic. Ingestion is considered nontoxic but deliberate inhalation of the propellant may cause drowsiness, dizziness and confusion.

FOOD SAFETY

Don't let spoiled food spoil your holidays! Visit www.eatsmartbc.ca for some simple rules to prevent food poisoning.
TURKEY PREPARATION

For information regarding thawing, cooking, preparing and storing your holiday turkey, visit www.butterball.ca.

PET SAFETY

Many people know that chocolate can be dangerous to dogs, but did you know that raisins and grapes, macadamia nuts, and bread dough could be a problem as well? Protect your pets this holiday season - keep Christmas decorations out of reach, and visit the American SPCA's Animal Poison Control Center and the Pet Poison Helpline for more tips on poison prevention for your pet.

•for 24 hr poison first aid and treatment information•
BC Poison Control Centre
604-682-5050 or 1-800-567-8911