OWL Recognizes National Poison Prevention Week: March 16 – 22

This National Poison Prevention Week, led by the American Association of Poison Control Centers, (March 16-22, 2025), we want to highlight the importance of poison safety and share valuable tips to protect your family, especially children and pets.

Understanding the Risks

Poisoning is a serious public health issue, affecting thousands of people each year. Common household items such as cleaning products, medications, pesticides, and even certain plants can pose significant risks if not handled properly. Young children, seniors, and pets are especially vulnerable to accidental poisoning.

Steps to Prevent Poisoning at Home

Here are some simple yet effective steps you can take to reduce the risk of accidental poisoning in your home:

• Store hazardous substances securely: Keep medications, household cleaners, and other chemicals in locked cabinets and out of reach of children.
• Label and follow instructions: Always read and follow labels on medications and cleaning products. Never transfer substances into unmarked containers.
• Dispose of hazardous materials properly: Unused or expired medications should be disposed of at designated take-back locations instead of being flushed or thrown in the trash.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors: Carbon monoxide poisoning is often silent but deadly. Ensure your home has working detectors to alert you to this invisible hazard.
• Know your plants and foods: Some common household plants and foods can be toxic to both children and pets. Research what is safe and remove any potential hazards.
• Educate children about safety: Teach kids not to touch or taste unknown substances and to ask an adult for help if they find something unfamiliar.

What to Do in a Poisoning Emergency

In the event of a poisoning emergency, quick action is crucial. Here’s what you should do:

1. Stay calm and assess the situation.
2. Call the Poison Control Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222. They provide 24/7 expert guidance.
3. If the person is unconscious or having trouble breathing, call 911 immediately.
4. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a professional.
5. Provide necessary information, such as the substance involved, amount ingested, and the person’s weight and age.

Our Role in Community Safety

As your volunteer fire department, we are committed to helping our community prevent emergencies before they happen. This National Poison Prevention Week, we encourage you to take these preventive measures seriously and share this information with your loved ones.

If you have any questions about home safety, fire prevention, or emergency preparedness, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Let’s work together to keep our community safe from all types of hazards!

Stay safe, stay informed, and remember—prevention is the best protection. For more information, visit: America’s Poison Centers.