If you suspect a poisoning emergency, immediately contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222. Post this number by your telephone. Calls to Poison Control are free.

By following these guidelines, you will be able to help prevent poisoning:

• Keep all chemicals and medicines locked up and out of sight.
• Use child-resistant packaging properly by closing the container securely after each use or choosing child-resistant blister cards, which do not need to be re-secured.
• Call 1-800-222-1222 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• Clean out the medicine cabinet periodically and safely dispose of unneeded and outdated medicines.

The American Red Cross advocates that at least one person in every household be trained in lifesaving first aid, CPR and AED. This can help people prevent, prepare for and respond to poisoning and other emergencies.

To get a free packet of poison prevention publications, write to Poison Prevention Packet, CPSC, Washington, DC 20207, or visit the Poison Prevention Week Council Web site.

Back to Health and Safety Services