TGIF: A Warning About Watch Batteries

Have you noticed the warning labels on quartz watches? Apparently, the button batteries in quartz watches can really cause serious injury or even death if they are eaten. It's not something most of us think about, but if you have children, grandchildren, or perhaps a curious dog or puppy, you should take precautions when it comes to button batteries.

These Little Batteries Can Be Very Dangerous if Swallowed

According to an article by the University of California - San Francisco's Benioff Children's Hospital, a watch battery can cause serious burns to the esophagus within 2 hours of ingestion.  Over 3500 cases of watch battery ingestion are reported to US Poison Control Centers. The article also warns that batteries stuck in ears can also cause injuries.

Watch Battery Warning Label

One of the key action items from this article is that if you, or a child or a pet ingests a watch battery you must take action immediately. The patient should be taken to the emergency room (or emergency vet for a pet) and if you have information about the type of battery you should provide it to them. You can contact POISON CONTROL as well at 1-800-222-1222.

Take Precautions with Watch Batteries:

• Store extra watch batteries safely.
• Discard old watch batteries.
• Secure batteries in remotes and other small devices.
• Keep watch batteries away from children and pets.