GOLDEN RULES

■ Your medicine chest and first aid kit should be locked away safely at all times.

■ Never ever give a baby or a child aspirin. It is very dangerous for them.

■ Check your supplies regularly, get rid of expired products and make a note to replace them. Don’t throw the expired meds in the bin – return them to the pharmacy so they can be disposed of properly.

■ If your baby has any strange reaction to medication, such as a rash, or if his condition worsens, see the doctor immediately.

■ Never give medication meant for older children or adults to babies.

■ Stick religiously to the recommended dosages, and measure accurately. Don’t guess. Medicines are often worked out according to weight, so if your baby is very small or very big, ask the pharmacist how you should adjust the dosage.

■ Be aware of the fact that many medications can contain the same ingredient. For instance, something for colds and flu might already contain paracetamol, so if you give pain relief that also contains paracetamol, you will be overdosing your baby.

■ Trust your instinct, and if you feel unsure or uncertain, ask your doctor or pharmacist.