National Button Battery Awareness Day is observed annually on June 12 to raise awareness about the dangers of button batteries, particularly for children. These small, coin-sized batteries are found in many household items, and their ingestion can cause severe injuries or even death. The day was established in memory of Reese Hamsmith, an 18-month-old who tragically passed away after swallowing a button battery. The day serves as a reminder to check our homes and ensure that these hidden hazards are securely stored.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: June 12
- Tagged as: Health, Safety, Child Protection
- What’s the hashtag?: #ButtonBatteryAwarenessDay
- When was it founded?: April 2021
- Who founded it?: Trista Hamsmith
History of National Button Battery Awareness Day
National Button Battery Awareness Day was created by Trista Hamsmith in April 2021 after her daughter Reese died from complications caused by ingesting a button battery. Despite surgery to remove the battery, the damage to Reese’s throat was too severe. Trista’s mission is to prevent other families from experiencing such a tragedy by raising awareness about the dangers of button batteries and advocating for safer product designs.
Timeline
- 2021: Trista Hamsmith establishes National Button Battery Awareness Day.
- 2022: Advocacy groups begin pushing for stricter safety laws regarding button battery compartments.
- 2023: Companies start introducing bitter coatings on button batteries to deter children from swallowing them.
- 2024: Increased public awareness campaigns highlight the dangers of button batteries during Child Safety Week.
- 2025: New legislation is proposed to mandate safer battery compartments in household products.
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | June | 12 | Thursday |
| 2026 | June | 12 | Friday |
| 2027 | June | 12 | Saturday |
| 2028 | June | 12 | Monday |
| 2029 | June | 12 | Tuesday |
Observed on National Button Battery Awareness Day
- Inspect your home for devices with button batteries and ensure they are securely stored.
- Educate your family about the dangers of button batteries.
- Share stories online using #ButtonBatteryAwarenessDay to spread awareness.
- Donate to organizations supporting families affected by button battery injuries.
Fun Facts About National Button Battery Awareness Day
- Button batteries are found in everyday items like remote controls, toys, and greeting cards.
- Some companies have begun coating these batteries with a bitter taste to prevent ingestion.
- Thousands of children are treated annually for injuries related to button battery ingestion.
Quiz
- When is National Button Battery Awareness Day celebrated?
- Who founded this day?
- What household items commonly contain button batteries?
- What can happen if a child swallows a button battery?
- What hashtag is used to promote this day?
(Answers: June 12; Trista Hamsmith; Remote controls, toys, greeting cards; Severe injury or death; #ButtonBatteryAwarenessDay)
FAQs
- Why was National Button Battery Awareness Day created?
- It was created in memory of Reese Hamsmith to raise awareness about the dangers of ingesting button batteries.
- What should I do if my child swallows a button battery?
- Seek immediate medical attention as it can cause severe damage within minutes.
- How can I make my home safer?
- Ensure all devices containing button batteries have secure compartments and store spare batteries out of reach.
Importance of National Button Battery Awareness Day
This day plays a crucial role in educating parents and caregivers about the hidden dangers posed by small batteries found in everyday items. Raising awareness can prevent injuries and save lives by encouraging safer product designs and more vigilant household safety practices.
Related Days
- Child Safety Week
- National Poison Prevention Week
- World Health Day