HEALTH experts have issued a safety warning after an incident in which a child in Cornwall swallowed a button battery.

Health professionals are warning parents to be extra vigilant.

As more children’s toys are powered by button batteries, the risk is significant as to a child they can look like chocolate coins or sweets, said Dr William Stableforth, consultant gastroenterologist and hepatologist at Royal Cornwall Hospital Trust.

He said: ‘Swallowing a button battery can cause very serious, life-changing or even fatal injuries in just a short time.’

Dr Caroline Court, interim director of well-being and public health for Cornwall, said: ‘As soon as you get a battery out of a toy, make sure it is out of reach. Batteries still in a packet should be stored away in a cupboard or drawer not accessible to children.’

The advice came in national Child Safety Week, which started on June 4.

You can find more information or get involved in the #ChildSafetyWeek on social media or visit www.capt.org.uk/Pages/Category/child-safety-week