Health Watch is a Public Service of the Office of News and Publications and is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional. You should contact your physician if you have questions about any of these topics.

This week on Healthwatch, we've been talking about keeping kids safe. Children have a lot of natural curiosity and a desire to explore their world, and that can sometimes get them in trouble. Children are especially fascinated by the adult world, and they want to try things they see their parents enjoying.

That's why doctors at UT Southwestern Medical Center say it's important to clean up quickly after a party - not just because you want to be a good housekeeper but because party leftovers can be tempting and dangerous for children. Dr. Kathleen Delaney, a UT Southwestern emergency medicine specialist, says cigarette butts left in ashtrays and the remains of alcoholic drinks left in glasses can be poisonous to children. Small children may try to eat the cigarette butts, and nicotine can make them sick. Alcohol can dangerously lower a child's blood sugar. Removing temptation can save a life.

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^{April 2005}

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