Button batteries can be a deadly hazard. If swallowed, button batteries can cause internal burns, severe bleeding and even death.

Items containing button batteries include:

• toys
• TV and car key remotes
• hearing aids
• bathroom scales
• flameless candles

Ways to keep children safe

• Don’t buy products with button batteries or check the battery section is child-proof and held closed with a screw.
• Inspect toys and other items regularly to make sure the button battery compartment is still secure.
• Store batteries out of sight and reach of children. 
• Dispose of batteries safely by wrapping them in sticky tape and putting them in a child resistant container, out of reach of children until you can recycle them at your nearest recycle collection point (visit bcycle.com.au). Even old or spent button batteries can be dangerous for kids.
• Tell everyone who cares for children about the dangers of button batteries.

What to do if a battery is swallowed

If you think your child has swallowed or inserted a battery e.g. in the nose or ear, or has breathing problems contact–

Christmas Island

Christmas Island Hospital phone: 08 9164 8333 (Open 24 hours) or go directly to the hospital emergency department.

Cocos Keeling Islands

The Nurse on: 

• West Island on 08 9162 6655 or
• Home Island on 08 9162 7609 or
• Channel 24 on any marine radio

Flyers available in Chinese, Malay and Cocos Malay.