National Poison Prevention Week (March 17-21) is an important time to raise awareness about the dangers of poisoning and how to prevent it. Each year, thousands of people, especially children, are affected by accidental poisoning, often from everyday household products or medications. This week serves as a reminder to take simple precautions to protect our homes and communities.
Statistics
Every year, more people die of poisoning than gun or car-related injuries. In 2022, U.S. Poison Centers responded, through the Poison Help Line (1-800-222-1222) and their website, to 2,427,974 total cases, on average receiving a new case every 15 seconds.
Purpose of this Week
National Poison Prevention Week was created in 1961 by Congress to increase knowledge about how to prevent and stop poisoning accidents. The main goal of this week is to teach everyone about the risks of poisoning and increase involvement in poison prevention.
How to Participate
You can participate in National Poison Prevention week in numerous ways, including:
- Call your local poison center to learn about local events and how you can help
- Share social media graphics
- Think about groups you can work with to share information
- Post facts about poisoning and poison center information
- And, give poison facts to local businesses, schools, and other groups
Prevention Tips
More than 90% of the time, poisons happen in people’s homes. Prevention tips vary depending on the item, including:
- Medicines: Keep all medicines, and potentially poisonous substances, in locked cabinets away from children. Keep medicines in original containers, properly labeled, and stored appropriately. Never share prescriptions and contact the toll-free Poison Help line (1-800-222-1222) to learn about taking more than 1 medication at one time
- Carbon Monoxide: Install a carbon monoxide detector in your home. Place these detectors near bedrooms or close to furnaces
- Household Products:
- Household cleaners and disinfectants must be used properly; follow instructions on the product label
- Do not mix bleach with anything other than water
- Keep cleaners and disinfectants away from children
- And, keep products in the original container
- Chemicals: Keep all chemicals and potentially poisonous substances away from children. Keep antifreeze and all chemicals in their original containers. Do not mix cleaners together
- School/Art Supplies:
- Do not eat or drink while using art products
- Wash skin after contact with art products
- Clean surfaces after art supplies are used
- And, keep products in original containers
- Food:
- Wash fruits and vegetables with running water
- Do not wash meat, poultry, or eggs
- Do not use cleaning products on food or food packaging
- Wash hands and work surfaces before, during, and after food prep
- And, store food at the correct temperatures
- Animal and Insects: Know what poisonous animals live in your area (snakes, spiders) and wear proper gear when hiking. Check labels on insect repellent; most contain DEET, which is poisonous in large quantities
- Plants, Mushrooms, and Berries: Be able to identify poisonous mushrooms and plants; call your local poison center to learn about common poisonous plants in your area
Conclusion
National Poison Prevention Week serves as a vital reminder of the risks associated with poisoning and the steps we can take to protect ourselves and our loved ones. By following simple safety guidelines, properly storing hazardous substances, and staying informed, we can significantly reduce the risk of accidental poisonings. This week is an opportunity to raise awareness, educate others, and take proactive measures to create a safer environment for everyone.