Holiday Hazards
Have fun during the Holidays!
Keep it safe by knowing about these potential holiday dangers:
Poinsettias
"The sap of the poinsettia is bitter and tastes awful, but the plant is not deadly," says Ann-Marie Krueger, education and community relations coordinator for the Banner Good Samaritan Poison and Drug Information Center.
"That has become one of the common myths over the years. Poinsettias are listed as a poisonous plant because they will cause stinging in the mouth if eaten and possibly cause throwing up.
This is especially true with pets as they attempt to get the bad taste out of their mouths."
Holly and mistletoe
Both holly and mistletoe can make you very sick if you eat them, Krueger says.
Berries of both plants can cause severe stomach illness or other problems.
Real berries on both holly and mistletoe are often replaced with artificial/fake berries that could cause a child to choke.
Pine trees are not poisonous but pine needles can be dangerous if a child tries to eat them. It is a good idea to keep the area under the tree clean, especially as the tree dries out and the needles fall more often, Krueger advises.
If a poisoning has occurred.
- Don't panic. Usually, a large amount of a poisonous plant must be eaten to cause problems.
- Remove any of the remaining plant from the mouth.
- Wash around the mouth and the hands.
- Call the Banner Poison Control Center at 1 (800) 222-1222.
- Follow the nurse's instructions.
