As part of National Poison Prevention Week, March 20-26, 2022, the American Trauma Society, Pennsylvania Division (ATSPA) is reminding the public of the dangers of potentially poisonous medicines and chemicals and outlining preventative steps people can take to ensure their safety and that of their loved ones.
More than 2 million poisonings are reported each year to the Nation’s poison control centers. According to the American Association of Poison Control Centers, 93 percent of poisonings happen at home. Most fatal poisonings occur among adults, especially older adults.
“By educating the public about preventative steps in the home and in their lives, we can make serious progress in keeping our loved ones safe,” said ATSPA CEO, Krista Brands. “It is vital that people arm themselves with basic information on poison prevention.”
ATSPA hopes that this information will ultimately mitigate the number of people who are involved in poisonings each year, especially poisonings in the home.
- Be Prepared. Put the poison control number (1-800-222-1222) in, on, or near your phone.
- Install a Carbon Monoxide Alarm. Every sleeping area of your home should have an alarm.
- Service Home Appliances. Keep appliances, furnaces, fireplaces, and wood-burning stoves in working order.
- Store Medicines and Products Properly. Medicines and household products should be stored in their original containers. Store household products, medicines, and food separately.
- Use Medicines Safely. Turn on the lights and read the label before taking or giving medicine. Follow directions exactly. Take only the medication prescribed to you by a medical professional. If a medication doesn’t work, don’t take extra doses. Contact your healthcare provider.
- Follow Directions. Read and follow the directions listed on all household products. Mixing products can release dangerous gases.
- Use Recommended Personal Protective Equipment and Ventilation.
In case of a poison emergency, contact your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.
National Poison Prevention Week was established by the U.S. Congress in 1961 to focus national attention on the dangers of poisonings and how to prevent them. To learn more about ways to keep people of all ages safe and help prevent poisonings, visit the Poison Help website at www.PoisonHelp.hrsa.gov (or to view materials in Spanish).
