SPONSORED CONTENT -- (StatePoint) About 7,000 children in the United States visit emergency rooms for battery-related injuries each year, according to the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System. Lithium coin batteries, those small, disc-shaped batteries about the size of a nickel, are particularly dangerous. The exact right size to get lodged in a child’s throat if accidentally swallowed, they can turn deadly, burning a hole in an esophagus in as little as two hours. And, they’re everywhere – in key fobs, key finders, flameless candles, remote controls, thermometers and many common home devices.

Despite parents’ thirst for knowledge on how to keep their children safe, the potential dangers of lithium coin batteries are not widely discussed. It’s no surprise then that 55% of parents with children ages 6 and under don’t realize that lithium coin batteries are more dangerous than button batteries – in fact 45% think there is no difference. That’s according to a 2023 Duracell survey conducted by Wakefield Research. This is why the brand is reminding parents that when it comes to lithium coin batteries, #BitterIsBetter.

As part of the #BitterisBetter campaign, Duracell is sharing these simple tips to help keep you and your family safe:

• One in 4 parents with kids aged 6 and under don’t know how many devices in their homes require lithium coin batteries to operate. Do a survey of your devices, and move those that contain lithium coin batteries away from and out-of-reach of children. Examples of common devices include flameless LED tealight candles, key fobs and thermometers.

• Get down to your child’s eye level to see what they see. Look for loose lithium coin batteries in couch cushions, on low tables and shelves or any other areas that a child can reach.

• Inspect devices and secure lithium coin battery compartments by tightening the screws or securing them with tape for an extra layer of protection.

• Keep all new lithium coin batteries in a secure compartment, up high and out of children’s reach. Remove expired batteries from devices, and place them away safely out of reach of children until you can recycle them properly.

• Power your devices with batteries that have child safety features. When it comes to lithium coin batteries, Duracell is the only brand on the market to offer a non-toxic bitter coating that helps discourage children from accidentally swallowing them. Look for the “Bitter Taste” icon on the packaging. The batteries also come in child-secure packaging, which is nearly impossible to open without scissors, making sure little hands, and mouths, cannot access them.

• Keep a watchful eye. Toddlers and young children are curious by nature so close supervision is key.

• If you suspect that your child has ingested a lithium coin battery, act fast. Take them immediately to an emergency room. If you aren’t able to drive, call 911 for help.

• Team up with friends and family to spread this information.

For more resources and tips, visit Duracell.com/BitterIsBetter and follow @Duracell on social media.

A battery-related accident can happen in an instant. By being vigilant and by choosing products wisely, you can help keep your family safe.

*****

Photo Credit: (c) Halfpoint / iStock via Getty Images Plus