Poisonings are more common, and more deadly, than what you realize. Over 700,000 drug related poisonings are reported from hospital emergency rooms each year and 35,000 poisonings cause deaths according to the US Department of Health & Human Services.
Who's at Risk? Young children under the age of six are most likely to be a victim, accounting for more than half of all poisonings. But deaths happen more often to people over the age of 20, accounting for 9 out of 10 poisoning deaths.
Prevention Tips: Making your home safe is critical to avoiding poisoning because more than 90 percent of poisonings occur in the home.
- Never mix household or chemical products together. Doing so can create a dangerous gas.
- Never share prescription medicines. If you are taking more than one drug at a time, check with your health care provider, or pharmacist.
- Keep all chemicals, perfume, personal care products, household cleaners, medicines, and potentially poisonous substances in locked cabinets or out of the reach of children.
If you have any questions about potential poisons call the toll-free Poison Help line (1-800-222-1222). You can also call Poison Help when accidents happen with chemicals, medicine, or household items. If someone is unconscious or has trouble breathing, call 911.