09/12/25 - Button batteries and how to keep kids safe

With Christmas fast approaching, it is worth a little reminder about a hidden danger in your home, that it often overlooked - button batteries. Not only can these be found in your child’s Christmas presents, they can also be in everyday items around your home i.e. in remote controls, car key fobs, light up decorations and even musical greeting cards. Button batteries might be within reach without even realising.

When a button battery is ingested, it starts reacting with bodily fluids, creating the same effect as caustic soda and essentially, burning through the flesh. In some cases, it can take just two hours for a battery to cause fatal damage.

Prevention starts at home; awareness is everything:

✅Check your home: - Walk around and make a list of anything that might contain a button battery; decorations, toys, remote controls, bathroom scales, toys….the list is pretty extensive once we stop and think where the batteries could be

✅Test for safety - Toys should meet UK safety standards and have a screw -secured battery compartment. Stay well clear of cheaper, unbranded toys that don’t have this feature.

✅Store spare batteries safely: Keep new and used batteries in a sealed container, out of reach and sight of children. Even ‘dead’ batteries can cause severe injury.

✅Check before you buy: Be alert when buying gifts. Look out for easy-access batteries or spare ones including in the packaging.

✅Spread the message: Share with family, friends and raise awareness.