Take Steps to Prevent Poisonings In your Home During National Poison Prevention Week 

Eustis, Fla.—During the 56^th National Poison Prevention Week, celebrated March 19-25 this year, the Florida Department of Health in Lake County is sharing tips to ensure the safety of homes and communities and help prevent poisonings. In 2016, nearly 38,000 poison exposure calls reported in Florida were regarding children age 5 and under. Poisonings are completely preventable and it is every adult’s responsibility to keep children safe from harmful exposure to medications and chemicals around the home.

“This week is a great time to raise awareness on the risk of unintentional poisoning by educating our community through public health prevention messages such as this one” said Aaron Kissler, Health Officer with the Florida Department of Health in Lake County. “Child poisoning can be prevented if we all do our part”

Florida’s Poison Control Centers handled 146,664 incoming calls during 2016. Poisonings can happen quickly and it is important to know how to prevent poisoning and what to do in case you or your children consume a potentially dangerous product. Always keep the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222 visibly posted in your home or classroom in case of an emergency.

The Florida Poison Information Center Network recommends the following tips for poison prevention.

• Install safety latches on cabinets and drawers;
• Keep all medicines, cleaning supplies and chemicals out of site and reach of children;
• Try to purchase products with child-proof packaging when available;
• Keep products in their original packaging, do not store them in food containers;
• Always read product labels and follow directions exactly; and
• Do not call medicine “candy” when giving it to children.

The Poison Help Line is free, confidential and multilingual and automatically directs the caller to the poison control center covering their geographic area.

Download the poison patrol checklist to help identify and safely store household poisons to keep your family safe and healthy.

About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

Follow us on Twitter at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.