This is National Poison Prevention Week, a time dedicated to raising awareness and educating the public about the dangers of poisoning. The Nebraska Poison Center is joining the nation’s fifty-three other poison centers in celebrating the week.
Jen Rohda is the educational coordinator and says poison is anything that can harm you if used in the wrong way, by the wrong person or in the wrong amount. She has a few tips for poison prevention.
“Secure your home and garages. Items like laundry detergent packets, cleaning supplies, plants, pesticides, gasoline, and medication can pose problems to children and pets when unsecured.,” Rohda says. “Keep them locked up or out of sight. Be sure to keep chemicals and medications in their original containers.”
She also urges parents and guardians to not referring to medicine as candy. “It can be confusing and dangerous for children. This can put them at risk for thinking that any medication is candy, especially gummy vitamins, and may entice them to seek out medicine bottles..”
She says put medications, including vitamins, up and away after every use. Use cabinet locks and lock boxes when possible and read all labels before use. She also warns that mixing household chemicals such as cleaning products and bleach has the potential to make toxic gases and can be deadly. Make sure you read all labels before use.
Rohda encourages adults to keep liquid nicotine, cigarettes, cannabis products and alcohol out of the reach of children. “Be aware that many product labels look like candy or other liquids that can entice kids, keep these up out of reach and locked up safely.”
She says calling the poison center can save you a trip to the emergency room. The NPC’s toll-free number 1-800-222-1222. A nurse or pharmacist is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year. You can also visit www.nebraskapoison.com and order your free poison prevention materials.