Dear Parents and Caregivers,

With the holiday season approaching, I would like to take this opportunity and share an important reminder.

According to the CDC, every year about 50,000 children end up in the emergency room due to accidental ingestion of medications or supplements. The holiday season, with travel, visiting guests, and changes in routine, increases this risk. We all look forward to enjoying a restful break, but please take a few moments to review these essential steps for maintaining medication safety at home and on the go:

1. Secure Storage is Non-Negotiable

•  All medications—including prescriptions, over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, vitamins, and supplements—must be kept out of sight and out of reach of children.

•  Childproof Caps and Lock It Up: Ensure all prescription and OTC medicines have childproof caps and are stored in a locked cabinet or lockbox.

• Avoid Countertops: Never leave medicine, even daily vitamins or small packets of cough drops, on kitchen counters, nightstands, or in unsecured purses/bags.

• Remind Guests & Relatives: Kindly ask any visiting friends or relatives to keep their own medications secured and locked away upon arrival. Be especially aware of potential medication hazards when visiting relatives' homes                                                                                                                 
  
  

2. Dosing and Administration

Medication errors can happen easily when schedules are disrupted.

• Be Attentive During Dosing: When you give your child a dose of medication, be attentive and watch them take it. If you or your child is rushing, the medication can be put in a pocket or set aside, creating an opportunity for accidental ingestion by someone else.

• Stick to the Schedule: If your child takes regular medication, establish a clear plan for the holiday break to maintain consistent timing, even with late bedtimes or travel.

• Follow Directions Exactly: Never guess a dosage. Use the measuring devices provided with the medication (not kitchen spoons). If you have any questions about dosing or timing, please contact your pharmacist or prescribing doctor.

• Never Share: Medication prescribed for one child (or adult) should never be given to another person.
  
  

3. Teach Your Child Medication Safety

Please take the time to teach your elementary-aged children these two rules:

• They should never take any medication (pills, liquids, or vitamins) from anyone other than their parent/caregiver or a designated adult like the School Nurse.

• Why We Lock It: Explain that medicine is only for people who need it, and that taking medicine that isn't theirs can make them very sick.

4. Travel and Medication

If your family is traveling, proper handling of medication is essential.

• Original Containers Only: Always transport medications in their original, clearly labeled containers. This helps prevent confusion and complies with TSA and travel regulations.

• Keep Accessible: When traveling by car or plane, keep essential medications with you (not checked luggage) in case of delays or lost baggage.

Please feel free to reach out  if you have any questions about managing your child's health during the holiday season. 

For more information:

Health in Hand

Medication Safety for Parents & Caregivers | Blogs | CDC

Medication Safety Tips for Families - HealthyChildren.org