Poison Prevention Tips

Here are the basic poison prevention tips that every person should check during National Poison Prevention Week:

• Use child-resistant packaging properly by closing the container securely after each use.
• Keep all chemicals and medicines locked up and out of sight.
• Call the poison center immediately in case of poisoning. Keep on hand a bottle of ipecac syrup but use it only if the poison center instructs you to induce vomiting.
• When products are in use, never let young children out of your sight, even if you must take them along when answering the phone or doorbell.
• Keep items in original containers.
• Leave the original labels on all products, and read the label before using.
• Do not put decorative lamps and candles that contain lamp oil where children can reach them. Lamp oil can be very toxic if ingested by young children.
• Always leave the light on when giving or taking medicine. Check the dosage every time.
• Avoid taking medicine in front of children. Refer to medicine as "medicine," not "candy."
• Clean out the medicine cabinet periodically and safely dispose of unneeded and outdated medicines.

Please visit the Poison Prevention Information Center website for poison prevention resources.