700 Children's® – A Blog by Pediatric Experts

Posts About Safety & Prevention

Posted by: Amy Leber, PhD on Aug 07, 2026

First published August 2016 Updated August 2026 Nothing says summer like a day at the pool, waterpark, lake, or beach. Swimming is a great way to stay active and cool off, but even the cleanest-looking water can contain germs that make people sick.

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Synthetic marijuana
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What Parents Need to Know About the Dangers of Synthetic Marijuana
Back in 2018, this 700 Children’s Blog taught about a brand-new hazard: somehow a group of drugs known as the synthetic cannabinoids was getting contaminated with blood thinners, and especially with a rat poison called brodifacoum. Here’s one with a bit of good news: one dangerous outbreak involving contamination of an abused drug has mostly faded away!
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The Dangers of Mercury and How to Get Rid of it Safely
Mercury may seem harmless, but even small spills can become dangerous if not cleaned up properly. Learn the health risks of mercury exposure, what to do if a spill happens, and when to call the Poison Help line for expert guidance.

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Pediatric News You Can Use From America’s Largest Pediatric Hospital and Research Center

700 Children’s® features the most current pediatric health care information and research from our pediatric experts – physicians and specialists who have seen it all. Many of them are parents and bring a special understanding to what our patients and families experience. If you have a child – or care for a child – 700 Children’s was created especially for you.

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ATV

Kids and ATVs: How to Help Prevent Severe Injuries

Aug 12, 2020

Although there has been a decline in ATV-related injuries in recent years in the United States, children younger than 12 years make up almost half of ATV-related head and neck injuries. Read More

Baby laying on tummy

Baby Product Safety: Confessions of a New Mom

Jul 21, 2020

As first-time parents of a handsome 4-month-old boy, my husband and I are trying to do everything right when it comes to safety and the products we use in our home. Read More

Household Cleaners and Eye Injuries

Household Cleaners and Eye Injuries: The Importance of Safe Storage

Dec 17, 2019

Household cleaning products represent a major source of exposures reported to U.S. poison control centers, and they commonly involve the eyes, especially among children. Read More

image of bike helmets on a shelf

Bike Sharing and Scooter Rentals: Why Children (and Adults) Need to Bring Their Own Helmets

Aug 09, 2018

Neighborhood bike-sharing and scooter rental programs have taken off this summer and as safety experts. While helmet use laws vary between states and cities, it’s a universal safety concern. Here's why people of all ages need to wear a helmet on every ride. Read More

image of a mom putting a helmet on her daughter

Use Your Head: Choosing and Fitting Your Child's Bike Helmet

Jun 25, 2018

While state and city laws enforcing helmet use vary, safety guidelines are universal: everyone on a bike of any type needs to wear a helmet on every ride. Learn how to choose the right helmet and fit it properly. Read More

image of pairs of flip flops next to a swimming pool

Summer Safety Guide: Expert Advice for Fun in the Sun

Jun 07, 2018

Our experts are giving you access to a Summer Guide full of tips and articles for a safe and healthy break. From advice on bumps and bruises, to swimming and playground safety and even managing your child’s mental health, we have advice for you and your child to have a safe and fun summer. Read More

image of kids watching a movie

Show Dogs: What Parents Need to Know

May 23, 2018

A new PG-rated children’s movie, Show Dogs, promises a light-hearted story of talking dogs who fight crime. However, it also sends a disturbing message to children about who is allowed to touch their private parts. Read More

image of lazy river

Pool Drains Are Not Toys: Viral Video Reminds Us to Review Pool Safety with Kids

Apr 27, 2018

Parents should teach their children to stay away from drains and make sure there is always a responsible adult watching children when they are in the water, regardless of their age. Read More