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Millions of people are unintentionally poisoned every year. National Poison Prevention Week is March 18-24 and is intended to raise awareness of the dangers of unintentional poisonings as well as provide helpful preventative tips. "Children Act Fast…So Do Poisons!" is the theme of Poison Prevention Week and reminds parents and adults that they must always be watchful and aware when household chemicals or drugs are being used. Many incidents occur when an adult is briefly distracted; therefore, dangers need to be kept out of children's reach at all times.
What is a poison?
A poison is any substance that can cause an unintended symptom. Poisons come in four different forms including: solids (medicine, plants, powders, etc.), liquids (lotion, soaps, syrup medicines, etc.), sprays (insecticides, spray paint, cleaning supplies, etc.), and invisible poisons (gases or vapors). All forms can be extremely dangerous if ingested, so precautions to keep all poisons in a safe place are necessary.
What do I do if a poisoning occurs?
First of all, remain calm! Not all medicines and household chemicals are poisonous, and not all exposures necessarily result in poisonings. For medicines and household chemicals, call the poison control center immediately. The poison control center can be reached toll-free at 1-800-222-1222 and is available 24-hours a day, 7-days a week, 365 days a year. If unable to contact them, call your local emer
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