Poison Proof Your Home

A poison is any substance that can cause harmful effects in the body. Millions of people are unintentionally poisoned every year, and children under the age of six are at the greatest risk. Keep all poisons including medications, cosmetics, household cleaners and chemicals, plants and other poisonous substances out of the reach of children. Never consume products that are not labeled as safe for drinking or eating like borax or bleach.

  1. Read all labels and follow directions before using product.
  2. Store all poisonous substances out of the reach of children; in locked cabinets or in cabinets secured with safety latches (locks). Read all labels and follow directions before using product.
  3. Store all potentially poisonous substances in their original containers. Never put poisonous substances in old food containers.
  4. Always use child-resistant packaging. Be aware that children can and do open these containers.
  5. Don't flush unwanted household medications or pour them down the drain. Do not give drugs to anyone else. Return to collection events where available. Some pharmacies have safe medical disposal available in their stores. Or, you can mix liquid medications with something undesirable (e.g. coffee grounds, cat litter, dirt). Tape up containers and toss in your garbage.
    For more information go to Safe Medication Disposal for Households
  6. Teach children not to touch or eat anything they don't recognize. Never call medicine candy.
  7. Pre-program the Poison Control Center in your phones and post it in a place 1-800-222-1222 where anyone can find it.

If Someone Could be Poisoned?

  • Stay calm
  • Immediately call the Poison Control Center for help: 1-800-222-1222. Be prepared to share:
    • the condition, age and weight of the patient
    • information from the product label that caused the poisoning
    • the time the poisoning occurred
    • Your name and telephone number.
  • Follow the instructions of the poison center.

Common Household Poisons

  • Household cleaners and disinfectants like bleach or borax
  • Pesticides
  • Alcohol
  • Plants
  • Any prescription and over the counter medicine
  • Vitamins
  • Cosmetics and personal care products
  • Arts and crafts and office supplies