Prevent Accidental Poisoning

“NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim March 15 through March 21, 2009, as National Poison Prevention Week.”¹

This week is National Poison Prevention Week.  It has been established to encourage Americans to learn more about the dangers of accidental poisonings and to take appropriate preventive measures.  According to SafeKids, every year more that 1.2 million children under the age of five are accidentally poisoned.² While over forty percent of those poisonings are attributed to accidental exposure to prescription drugs, the remaining are caused by everything from household cleaners to wild berries.

There are numerous tip-lists about poison prevention online, most of which focus on keeping potentially dangerous products out of reach or locked up.  These are important steps and, with toddlers and pre-schoolers in the house, should not be taken lightly.  If you have been putting off child-proofing your home because your child(ren) are too young to walk, or because you feel your child is under constant supervision, now is the time to install latches on cabinets and put up high any chemicals in your garage.  Before you can blink, baby will be curiously exploring – often right under your nose.  Also, don’t forget travel cases and handbags, especially of visitors; make sure they are out of reach as well.

For children old enough to understand, knowledge can be the greatest protection.  The best publication I found for tips on how to talk with children about poisons was drafted by the American Association of Poison Control Centers (AAPCC).  It will teach you how to describe poisons and explain what to do and not to do in language your children will understand.

This week’s Safety To-Do list is for parents and grandparents of young children as well as anyone else who may have young children visiting his or her home.  Here it is:

• Put away all medications (don’t leave on counter or nightstand).

• Purchase and install cabinet and drawer locks.

• Make sure poisons outside and in the garage are out of reach.

• Talk with children (starting around age four or five) about poisons.  Teach them what poisons look like and what to do to avoid getting sick.  Repeat the discussion periodically.

¹ White House Press Release, Office of the Press Secretary, March 13, 2009

² SafeKids USA