National Poison Prevention Week: Simple Steps to Keep Your Family Safe
National Poison Prevention Week March 15-21. It’s a good time to talk about an important but often overlooked safety issue: accidental poisoning. Many poison emergencies happen at home, and adults can help prevent them. Here are a few simple steps to protect you, your children, and your loved ones.
Common Poison Risks at Home
Poisoning can happen when everyday items are used the wrong way or stored unsafely. Common causes include:
- Medications, both prescription and over the counter
- Cleaning products and laundry pods
- Pesticides and bug sprays
- Alcohol and vaping liquids
- Carbon monoxide from gas appliances
Even small amounts of these items can cause serious harm if swallowed, inhaled, or mixed incorrectly.
Safe Storage Saves Lives
One of the best ways to prevent poisoning is safe storage. Keep medications and chemicals locked away and out of sight and reach of children and pets. Always store products in their original containers with labels intact. Never use food containers to store chemicals, as this can cause confusion and accidents.
If you take medication every day, follow the directions carefully. Do not share your medication with others, even if they have similar symptoms. When you no longer need a medication, use a local drug take-back program or follow safe disposal instructions.
Be Ready in an Emergency
Knowing what to do in an emergency can make a big difference. Save the Poison Control Center’s help number (1-800-222-1222) in your phone and post it somewhere visible at home. This free service is available 24/7 and connects you to trained experts who can help right away.
If you think someone has been poisoned, call the Poison Control Center immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to appear. If the person is unconscious, having a seizure, or not breathing, call 911 right away.
Prevention Starts with Awareness
Poison prevention is not just for families with young children. Adults of all ages can be affected. Taking time during National Poison Prevention Week to review safety habits can help prevent accidents year-round.
At Fidelis Care, we believe that prevention is part of good health. Small steps today can help keep your home safer tomorrow.