Choking risks for children made news recently. The potential for serious health problems and even death has some wondering if warning labels need to be slapped on hot dogs and other items. But it's not just food that can pose a risk to children. Our Channel Six pediatrician shows us what to keep an eye on.
Nine-month-old Brice Owens wants to talk and is starting to walk. That means he's old enough to put himself in a dangerous situation, especially with his older sister's toys.
Yahnea Owens says, "Some of the pieces of those can come off, so it's constantly monitoring, making sure nothing is left behind when we clean up that's stuck in the carpets."
Dr. Clancy McNally says, "They're picking up anything and everything and sticking it in their mouths: small toys from siblings; coins, which can get stuck in the airway and esophagus. And balloons are hazards."
Playthings aren't the only threats. Food is actually the number-one hazard. We've all heard about hot dogs but other items like nuts and raw carrots are also dangerous. Food like raisins, Craisins and grapes are okay if cut up properly."
Yahnea Owens says Brice, "tries to take the spoons and feed himself sometimes," but while he wants to be independent, he still needs his mom's supervision.
Dr. McNally says, "When kids are starting to be introduced to solid foods, around six to nine-months, to things they have to chew or mash before swallowing, it's really important to watch the child and watch closely."
When it comes to curious children, the unexpected can happen in the blink of an eye.