A survey of 1,000 parents of children aged 0-5 found that 51% consider themselves 'very aware' of home dangers, yet 45% admit they only recognize a safety risk once their child has already encountered it. Fewer than half (49%) identify toys containing coin batteries as a threat, and even fewer appreciate risks from batteries in car key fobs (33%), TV remotes and bathroom scales (30%).
Rachel Riley promotes battery safety campaign
Energizer has launched its 'Summer Safety Swap' campaign, featuring the new Ultimate Child Shield batteries. These batteries have child-resistant packaging, a bitter coating to deter swallowing, and a blue dye that activates with saliva. They are the world's only coin lithium battery engineered to prevent ingestion burns if accidentally swallowed.
Broadcaster and mother Rachel Riley visited a primary school to educate pupils about hidden coin battery dangers. She said: "As parents, we all want to do everything we can to keep our children safe, so it's reassuring to see innovations that can help reduce everyday risks." She added: "The summer holidays mean children naturally spend more time at home exploring and playing, and with so much going on, it's easy for everyday hazards to be overlooked. Many of us don't realise just how many everyday household items may contain coin batteries, which is why taking a few simple steps before the holidays can make such a difference. By checking for loose batteries, storing them safely and making simple swaps where possible, families can help make their homes even safer while children are busy exploring."
Parents already taking precautions
The survey found parents are already proactive: 64% store knives and sharp tools securely, 61% move hot drinks and kettles away from edges, and 61% keep tablets out of reach. Nearly a quarter (23%) assess home safety daily. However, 21% would be unsure how to respond if their child swallowed a coin battery; one in ten would try to remove it themselves, and another one in ten would turn to artificial intelligence for guidance. The OnePoll.com study also showed 55% feel there is insufficient information about hidden home dangers.
Five tips for safe swapping from a paediatric doctor
Paediatric doctor Radhika Thakrar shared practical advice for summer safety swaps:
1. Look beyond the toy box. Coin batteries are in many household items like remote controls, key fobs, digital scales, lights and musical greeting cards. Identify which devices contain them and consider switching to batteries with child-safety features.
2. Check that battery compartments are secure. Inspect for loose backs, missing screws or damaged compartments. Batteries should require a tool or secure mechanism to access. Stop using any device with an insecure compartment.
3. Store loose batteries safely. Keep new, spare and used batteries high up, locked away and out of children's sight and reach. Avoid leaving them in drawers, bags, worktops or beside devices.
4. Dispose of used batteries promptly. Used or 'flat' batteries still pose a danger. Keep them out of reach until taken to a battery recycling point, not in household bins or around the home.
5. Know what to do in an emergency. If a child may have swallowed a coin battery, do not wait for symptoms, attempt removal or rely on online advice. Take them straight to A&E and tell medical staff a battery may have been swallowed.
