Hand Sanitizer: More Kids Eating 'Fun' Scented Sanitizers

First Posted: Sep 16, 2015 12:03 AM EDT
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Sure, most of us know that we put hand-sanitizers on our hands. But kids aren't always sure that Purell and similar brands are used for that. And well, sometimes they'll actually drink and/or eat it.

This foam, gel or liquid solution that's concocted out of isopropyl alcohol is dangerous, and consuming it can be poisonous.

Over the years, companies have made these household poisons a bit more appealing to children. For instance, 12 cases of younger children ingesting hand sanitizers with reports coming from poison control centers noted that the scents were "fun," including grape and strawberry scented, according to USA Today.

CNN also noted that the number of consumption cases has jumped from 3,266 in 2010 to 16,177 in 2014. And hand sanitizers are much more dangerous than alcohol. Where beer or wine typically contained 5 to 12 percent alcohol respectively, hand sanitizers range from 45 to 95 percent.

If you believe that your child may have consumed hand sanitizer, call the poison control center immediately for the nearest location near you. There are 55 locations throughout the United States, and one can be found in your area by calling in at 1-800-222-1222, as well as immediate advice on what to do.

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