Button batteries are a hidden hazard in your home in a number of everyday household items. Every week in Australia 20 children are taken to hospital after swallowing or inserting button batteries. If swallowed, they can become stuck in a child’s throat and result in catastrophic injuries and even death.

Knowing the big danger a little battery poses means you can take steps to keep children safe.

If you suspect your child has swallowed or inserted a button battery immediately call Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26

If your child is having difficulty breathing contact 000 Once at the hospital, ask for an X-ray.

Button batteries may be in:

• TV remote
• hearing aid
• bathroom scales
• AirTags (Apple)
• flameless candles
• toys

If you suspect your child has swallowed or inserted a button battery, call the Poisons Information Centre immediately on 13 11 26. If your child is having difficulty breathing, contact 000. Once at the hospital, ask for an X-ray.

There are a number of ways you can protect children:

• Check – look for products that do not use button batteries or check for child resistant battery compartments.
• Secure – ensure compartments that house batteries are secured with a screw or require dual simultaneous movements to open. 
• Inspect – regularly check toys and items for wear and tear in case access to the button battery compartment has loosened.
• Store – keep new and used batteries out of sight and reach of children at all times.
• Safely dispose – put sticky tape around the battery and immediately recycle safely or put it in an outside bin. Even old or spent button batteries can be dangerous for kids.
• Tell everyone – talk to anyone else who cares for children, to make sure they’re aware of the risks that button batteries pose. 
• Learn – visit Product Safety Australia’s website for more information: www.productsafety.gov.au