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For adults and children alike, common household supplies can be dangerous when ingested, inhaled or in contact with skin or eyes. Additionally, over-the-counter and prescription drugs can have adverse effects if not taken with caution. We offer you the following tips to keep you and your family safe.
 

Household Medicines:

• Always follow the directions on the medicine label when you are giving or taking medication. Correct dosage is important.

• Medicine should be kept in locked cabinets, out of the sight and reach of children.

• Check with your doctor before taking multiple over-the-counter or prescription medications.

• Never share prescribed medication with anyone for whom the medication is not prescribed, as dosage and other drug safety concerns vary from person to person.

• Periodically clean out your medicine cabinets. Check expiration dates on over-the-counter and prescription drugs and discard those that have expired.

 

Household Chemicals:

• Always read the label before using a product that may be poisonous or hazardous.

• Keep chemicals in their original containers, read instructions and warnings before use.

• Never mix household chemicals as this could release toxic gases.

• Make sure the room you are cleaning or working in is well-ventilated.

• Keep chemicals in locked cabinets, away from children and pets.

 

If Poisoning Occurs:

• Remain calm.

• Call 911 or the poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.

• Have the following information available:

  • The victim’s age and weight.

  • The container or bottle of the poison.

  • The time of exposure.

  • The address where the poisoning occurred.

• Stay on the phone and follow the directions given by the operator.

• With many pills, it may take several hours or longer for symptoms to develop. Do not wait. Call the poison control center immediately.

• Anyone exposed to a toxic gas should be removed from the source and placed in fresh air.

 

For more information on poison prevention...

American Association of Poison Control Centers: 
Poison Prevention Week Council: