A poll of 1,000 parents of children aged 0-5 found that 51% consider themselves 'very aware' of home dangers, yet 45% only recognise a risk after their child has encountered it. Fewer than half (49%) know that toys with coin batteries pose a threat, and even fewer are aware of risks from car key fobs (33%), TV remotes and bathroom scales (30%).
Energizer's Summer Safety Campaign
Energizer is urging families to swap coin batteries for its Ultimate Child Shield batteries, which feature child-resistant packaging, a bitter coating, and a blue dye that activates with saliva. These are the only coin lithium batteries engineered to prevent ingestion burns if swallowed.
The brand teamed up with broadcaster Rachel Riley, who visited a primary school to teach children about hidden battery dangers. 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. 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."
Parental Awareness and Preparedness
The survey, conducted by OnePoll.com, showed parents already take steps like storing knives safely (64%), moving hot drinks (61%) and putting tablets out of reach (61%). Almost a quarter (23%) review home safety daily. However, 21% would not know 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 ask AI. 55% felt there isn't enough information about hidden dangers.
Five Safety Tips from Paediatric Doctor Radhika Thakrar
1. Look beyond the toy box: Coin batteries are in remotes, key fobs, scales, lights, and musical cards. Identify devices and consider batteries with child-safety features.
2. Check battery compartments: Inspect for loose backs, missing screws, or damage. Batteries should not be accessible without a tool. Stop using devices with unsecurable compartments.
3. Store loose batteries safely: Keep new, spare, and used batteries high up, locked away, out of children's sight and reach. Avoid leaving them in drawers, bags, or on worktops.
4. Dispose of used batteries promptly: Even 'flat' batteries can be 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, do not wait for symptoms, attempt removal, or rely on online advice. Go straight to A&E and tell medical staff a battery may have been swallowed.
