Child safety

Keep small objects away from young children

Keep coins, marbles, buttons, batteries, and loose toy parts out of a young child's sight and reach.

High-priority reminder

Last reviewed: 2026-10-12

Coins and batteries on the floor near a toddler on the left and small items secured in a high latched box on the right

Why it matters

Young children put objects in their mouths. Small items can block the airway, and a swallowed button battery can cause severe internal injury.

Wrong action

Leaving coins, batteries, or toys with loose parts on the floor, a low table, or inside sofa gaps.

Correct action

Put small objects away after every use and regularly check floors, furniture gaps, and toys.

What to do

Check the floor and low furniture from a young child's eye level.
Put away coins, marbles, buttons, batteries, and small magnets.
Stop using toys with loose parts or a damaged battery cover.

If something happens

If the child cannot cough effectively, speak or breathe, call 999; follow dispatcher or trained age-appropriate choking aid. If unresponsive and not breathing normally, start age-appropriate CPR as the dispatcher directs. Give no drinks and do not blindly insert fingers. Suspected swallowed button battery: seek emergency care now, even without symptoms.