Magnets Safety
Awareness of Magnet Safety
Fermanagh and Omagh District Council is raising awareness of the dangers of swallowing small high-powered magnets.
How to keep children safe
Check your home
If you have toys or adult desk toys with small magnets, a magnetic sphere construction set, or keep magnets on your fridge, then move them out of the reach of small children. If a toy is faulty and magnets have come loose, get it fixed or dispose of it safely. Don’t attach magnets to glassware as they can become loose and then easily swallowed. Report any product that you think is unsafe to your local council Environmental Health team.
Talk to children about the dangers
Using magnetic products as fake piercings, on the tongue, mouth or nose, increases the risk of inhalation or ingestion. Discuss with children and teenagers why small high-powered magnets are dangerous, and why they shouldn’t use them as fake piercings on their body, or as decorative items on glassware.
If you suspect your child has swallowed magnets
If you think your child has swallowed a magnet, take them straight to the nearest A&E or call 999 for an ambulance.
Symptoms may not be obvious. Your child might:
· have stomach pain
· be vomiting
· have a fever
· be pointing to their throat or stomach
Unclear or fluctuating symptoms mean it’s important to be vigilant.
For more information: