Arum lilies top the dangerous plants list. They cause a burning sensation if eaten. Foxgloves and similar plants have a digitalis-type action which can be toxic to the heart. Belladonna and similar plants contain atropine-like compounds, and people can get dilated pupils and blurred vision. They can get hot and dry and confused.

FIRST AID treatment is fairly limited for parents, and it is no longer recommended to make poisoned children vomit. The best thing is to call a doctor or the Poison Centre, (03) 474-7000.

Children can be given a small amount of water or milk, but not too much. In the old days, people used to think "I'll give lots and lots of fluids to dilute the poison", but we now know that if you give too much, it spreads the poison over a bigger surface area. So please call your doctor or the Poisons Centre immediately if you suspect poisoning. They will give you advice.

The National Poisons Information Centre is available 24 hours on (03) 474-7000.