National Poison Prevention Week 2011

by Tina Keller
(Louisville, OH )

"A child is accidentally poisoned every 30 seconds at home..." -U.S. Poison Control Centers

National Poison Prevention Week. It's March 20-26, 2011. Did you know that there is a National Poison Prevention Week? I found out about this last year! The goal of Poison Prevention Week is to reduce illnesses, injuries, and deaths due to poisonings; build safer communities; and reduce unnecessary health care costs for everyone.

Reminder From Last Year:
-Post the Poison Center Number by your phones 1-800-222-1222
-Program the Poison Center Number into your cell phone
-ALWAYS call medicine by it's name, NEVER call it Candy!
-Store all Products in original containers, NEVER put them in food or beverage containers
-If you use dangerous cleaning products, store & lock them out of sight of children
-Lock all cabinets with child proof safety latches that lock when you close the door
-If the doorbell or phone rings, take children with you, do NOT leave a child unattended even for a minute if you have any cleaning or personal care products out! (Children act fast, So do Poisons!)
-Put dangerous cleaning or personal care products away immediately after use
-Keep poisonous plants out of reach of children & Pets--better yet, don't even bring them into your home! For a list of poisonous plants call 1-800-222-1222.