A new survey of 1,000 parents with children aged 0-5 finds that 51% are 'very aware' of potential dangers at home, yet 45% only see a safety risk after their child has already encountered it. Fewer than half (49%) recognise toys containing coin batteries as a risk, while even fewer consider batteries in car key fobs (33%), TV remotes, and bathroom scales (30%).
To address this, Energizer has launched a 'Summer Safety Swap' campaign and partnered with broadcaster and mathematician Rachel Riley, who visited a primary school to teach children about coin battery dangers. The brand also introduced Ultimate Child Shield batteries with child-resistant packaging, a bitter coating, and a blue dye released on contact with saliva, designed to prevent ingestion burns if swallowed.
Rachel Riley's Warning
Rachel 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."
The research found parents already take proactive steps like storing knives safely (64%), moving hot drinks away from edges (61%), and putting tablets out of reach (61%). Almost a quarter (23%) review home safety daily, but 21% wouldn't know how to respond if a child swallowed a coin battery. One in ten would try to remove it themselves or turn to AI for advice.
Five Tips from a Paediatric Doctor
Energizer enlisted paediatric doctor Radhika Thakrar to share practical tips 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 devices and consider batteries with child-safety features.
2. Check battery compartments. Inspect devices for loose backs, missing screws, or damaged compartments. Stop using any device that cannot be securely closed without a tool.
3. Store loose batteries safely. Keep new, spare, and used batteries high up, locked away, and out of sight and reach. Avoid leaving them in drawers, bags, or on worktops.
4. Dispose of used batteries promptly. Even 'flat' batteries are dangerous. Keep them out of reach until taken to a recycling point, not in household bins.
5. Know what to do in an emergency. If a child may have swallowed a coin battery, go straight to A&E and tell medical staff. Do not wait for symptoms, attempt removal, or rely on online advice.
