Parents and childminders are being reminded of the importance of keeping liquid detergent capsules out of children's reach.

Also known as liquitabs, these products are made up of concentrated liquid detergent within a soluble package which breaks down after coming into contact with water. They can be extremely dangerous in the hands of small children.

"If the liquid comes into contact with the eyes it can cause conjunctivitis, eye pain and damage to the cornea potentially resulting in temporary blindness. If the liquid is swallowed, it can result in severe vomiting and respiratory distress. It can also cause a rash if it comes into contact with the skin," explained Dr Edel Duggan of the National Poisons Information Centre (NPIC) at Beaumont Hospital in Dublin.

Between 2011 and 2014, the NPIC received over 720 enquiries about liquitabs. Most of these enquiries related to children under the age of three years. Last year alone, 168 enquiries were made.

As liquitabs are small and colourful, it is easy for children to mistake them for toys or sweets.

"Our advice is for parents and childminders to store the liquitabs out of reach and sight, preferably in a locked cupboard. When using the liquitabs read the instructions and safety messages on the labels. They should not be taken out when children are close by and should only be handled with dry hands. It is important that they are stored in their original container and the lid is closed properly after use," Dr Duggan noted.

The NPIC and the Health Safety Authority (HSA) advise that if a person swallows the liquid inside a liquitab, vomiting should not be induced. Instead, try to rinse as much of the product out of the mouth as possible.

If it comes into contact with the skin, such as the hands, wash thoroughly. Meanwhile if it comes into contact with the eyes, rinse them carefully with water for 10-15 minutes.

In any of these events, call the NPIC or bring the child to your nearest Emergency Department (ED).

The NPIC's information line is open seven days a week, from 8am to 10pm. Call (01) 809 2166.