Health Watch is a Public Service of the Office of News and Publications and is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional. You should contact your physician if you have questions about any of these topics.

We're talking about keeping kids safe this week on Healthwatch. Warm spring weather means many families will be spending time outdoors. Doctors at UT Southwestern Medical Center say parents need to be aware of potential poisoning dangers that might be in a yard or park.

There are a number of poisonous plants that look a lot like familiar foods. Hemlock roots are highly poisonous, but they look like parsnips or carrots. Many of the mushrooms that you'll find on your lawn are poisonous, and brightly colored berries may be tempting to children but aren't always edible. Dr. Rebeca Gracia, a UT Southwestern toxicologist, says parents need to supervise children and teach them not to eat things they pick up outdoors.

You should also keep the number of your local poison center handy in case of emergency.

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