March 18-22 is National Poison Prevention Week. A time to raise awareness of poison prevention and highlight the dangers of poisoning for people of all ages. Here are a few practices to prevent poison exposure:
- Secure Storage: Store hazardous substances away from incompatible items and away from children and pets.
- Label Awareness: Read and follow labels carefully, follow dosage instructions and safety precautions provided by the manufacturers. Do not transfer substances to unlabeled containers.
- Safe Disposal: Dispose of expired or unused medication and household chemicals. For jobs that use chemicals, read the manufacturer’s instructions for disposal.
- Education and Communication: Educate workers, coworkers, and family members about the potential dangers of ingesting poisonous substances.
- Emergency Preparedness: Familiarize yourself with local poison control resources, including the hotline numbers and first aid procedures. Act promptly and seek medical attention if exposed.
- Environmental Preparedness: Be mindful of potential sources of poisoning in your surroundings including carbon monoxide, lead-based paint, and toxic plants. Take proactive measures to reduce these risks.
If you or someone you know may have been exposed to a poison, call your local poison control center at 800-222-1222.