National Poison Prevention Week

March 18th through 24th is National Poison Prevention Week, established by the U.S. Congress in 1961 to promote poison prevention.


When I was a little girl, I remember my parents putting this awful green stickers with a YUK face on just about everything dangerous. My mom says she had a hard time keeping me out of things - partially because of my love of sleeping in dark places, like cabinets. (I still can't sleep if there's light, lol) See? I said I was a handful! lol I wish I could find those stickers these days - although using natural cleaners isn't quite as dangerous as the chemical laden junk back then, I still worry. There are moments I feel like my head has to be on a swivel to keep my daughter - and my pets - out of dangerous things. We all know it can just take one second for the worst to happen.

For a poison emergency in the U.S., call 1-800-222-1222 IMMEDIATELY. Even if you're not 100% sure your child swallowed that cleaner, every second counts! This will get you fast, free and expert help or even just information 24/7 for emergencies. You can even just call them with your questions about poison.

There is also a number to call for any animal poison-related emergency, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year: (888) 426-4435. As a heads up, this service is not always free, they may charge you $65 for a consultation fee. Find the number of your 24 hour animal emergency service and keep this number by it's side. The ASPCA has a great article with what to do if your pet poisoned - take a moment and read through it. It even has a list for items to put in an emergency first aid kit for your pet(s).

While being prepared for an emergency like poisoning won't necessarily prevent it from happening in the first place - Murphy's Law - it can still help you be ready to spring into action. Program the emergency numbers I've shared with you into every cell phone you have, as well as writing it down next to any land line phones you may have. Those few minutes you save by doing that could mean the difference between life and death.

Thanks to California Poison Control for letting me know that this week is National Poison Prevention Week. Check out their website for more information and advice, even if you don't live in California.