National Poison Prevention Week: Be Vigilant

When my daughters transitioned from newborns to crawling around and ultimately curious toddlers exploring every taste, touch and smell,  the poison control hotline was a number I could access in a heartbeat.   Add this to your contact list in your cell phone: 1.800.222.1222. When I stepped out of a room, I knew they could open a cabinet, spill something or eat something that could cause serious harm.

But if you are like me, as the kids grew older, you assume the risk is reduced.  They are old enough to know what does and doesn't go in their mouths, right?   This is an important wake-up call for parents about the dangers of poisonous substances in and around our homes.

Did you know?

• Poisoning surpassed firearms in 2005 to become the second leading cause of unintentional injury-related death in the US behind motor vehicle accidents

• In 2009, approximately 52% of all “exposure” calls to the IPC (almost 45,000 calls) involved children ages 5 and under.  Nationally, over 4 million calls are received by poison centers for information and treatment advice on potentially harmful substances

In celebration of Illinois Poison Prevention Month (March) and National Poison Prevention Week (March 14-20), the Illinois Poison Center (IPC) is holding a Facebook Fan Drive.   To help in the effort, Savvy Daddy and others are donating $1 for every new fan (from Illinois) in the month of March.

Become a fan here.

Click here for two interesting articles from the Illinois Poison Center Blog:  Top Five Things You Didn't Think Could Be Poisonous to Children and A Day In the Life of the Illinois Poison Center.   You'll be amazed at the service this organization provides to families who are facing a crisis involving harmful substances.  Also, if you are interested in learning more about Poison Prevention Education Resource Center, check out their website here.

Remember: If you shouldn't have taken it, eaten it, touched it or let it bite you, call the experts who can help 1-800-222-1222. Be safe!

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