Lithium “Button” Batteries – A Lurking Danger
There is an emerging danger hiding in your home — lithium “button” batteries — causing injuries and death in children. When swallowed, these small batteries get stuck in the esophagus (throat). The saliva triggers an electric current which causes a chemical reaction that can severely burn the esophagus in as little as two hours.
Lithium batteries can be found in everything in your home. They are used to power remote controls, toys, musical greeting cards, calculators, watches and other electronics. Small children often have easy access to these devices, and many parents do not know there is a risk.
Incidents of ingesting button batteries are on the rise
- More than 80 kids nationwide have suffered permanent damage from injuries caused by ingesting button batteries.
- Fifteen children have died — 11 of them within the last six years.
- In 2010, more than 3,400 kids swallowed button batteries.
How to protect your child from the dangers of button batteries
Keep your child safe by:
- Knowing where the batteries are in the home
- Securing them out of reach of children
- Telling everyone you know about the risk
- If you think our child swallowed a battery, seek medical attention immediately!
Resources
- Safe Kids Worldwide has partnered with Energizer to raise awareness about button batteries. Learn more about their campaign and how you can protect your child.
- Button Battery Ingestions: How Dangerous Is it in Kids? - Commentary by Dr. Ian Jacobs from the Center for Pediatric Airway Disorders at CHOP
Medscape News Today, Nov. 28, 2011
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