Hamburg - Parents should be careful about what they plant in their garden as flowers such as brugmansia, golden chain and nightshade can all lead to serious poisoning among children, reports a German safety organization. Even the small blue berries from ivy are dangerous. Indeed, flowers and berries are especially dangerous for two and three-year- olds, since they are so prone to putting such items into their mouth.

In case of poisoning, parents should never try to force their child to vomit. First, parents should get the child to have a drink of water or tea. Milk and salt water solutions are not advisable, reports the group, The Safe House.

Then consult a doctor or a poison control centre. In serious cases, such as when breathing problems develop, parents should alert emergency services. (dpa)