Poisoning is a serious public health concern that affects people of all ages. From household chemicals to medications, everyday items can pose a risk if not handled properly. National Poison Prevention Week, observed every March, serves as an important reminder to take steps to prevent poisoning incidents. Below, we outline key poison prevention tips tailored for different age groups.
Infants and Toddlers (0-3 years)
Young children are naturally curious and explore the world by putting things in their mouths.
- Store medications, cleaning products, and other hazardous substances in locked cabinets or out of reach.
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Use child-resistant packaging on all household chemicals and medications.
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Keep batteries, especially small button batteries, away from children to prevent ingestion.
- Never store chemicals or medicines in food or drink containers, as this can cause confusion.
As children grow, they become more independent but may not fully understand risks.
- Teaching children about the dangers of household chemicals and medications.
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Ensuring all medications are administered by an adult and not referred to as “candy.”
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Supervising children when using arts and crafts materials, as some may contain toxic substances.
- Keeping plants, pesticides and automotive products out of reach and educating children about their hazards.
Teenagers are at risk of poisoning from intentional or accidental misuse of substances.
- Educating teens on the dangers of misusing prescription and over-the-counter medications.
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Talking openly about the risks of vaping, alcohol and drug use.
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Safely disposing of expired or unused medications to prevent access.
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Encouraging teens to seek help from a trusted adult if they or a friend are in danger of poisoning.
- To keep friends and family or anyone safe, carry naloxone with you to reverse an opioid overdose.
Poison risks for adults often come from improper medication use, household chemical exposure or workplace hazards.
- Always read labels and follow dosage instructions when taking medications.
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Never mix household cleaners, as some combinations can create toxic fumes.
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Store chemicals in their original containers with proper labels.
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Be aware of potential poisoning risks in the workplace and use protective equipment when necessary.
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Carry naloxone with you to reverse an opioid overdose.
- Safely store your medications, cannabis and drugs away from children and others. Here is a 30 second video to explain: Safe Storage of Drugs - YouTube
The risk for medication-related poisonings may be higher when we have multiple prescriptions. Prevention strategies include:
- Keeping an up-to-date list of all medications and reviewing them regularly with a healthcare provider.
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Using a pill organizer to prevent dosing errors.
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Ensuring proper labeling of all medications to avoid mix-ups.
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Keeping emergency contact numbers, including Poison Control (1-800-222-1222), easily accessible.
- Safely store your medications, cannabis and drugs away from children and others. Here is a 30 second video to explain: Safe Storage of Drugs - YouTube
If poisoning is suspected, act quickly:
- Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 for immediate guidance.
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If the person is unconscious, having trouble breathing, or having a seizure, call 911 immediately.
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Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a medical professional.
- By taking proactive steps, we can reduce the risk of poisoning across all age groups and create safer homes and communities. Share these tips with friends and family to spread awareness during Poison Prevention Week and beyond!