March 19-25 is nationally recognized as Poison Prevention Week. This year’s National Poison Prevention Week theme, “When poison happens, we’re here for you” aims to raise awareness of the danger of poisons and provide appropriate resources available to citizens. This week, North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) is raising awareness about the resources available to families in the event of poisoning. HHS also wants citizens to know that poison centers are available 24/7 for questions and emergencies.
Did you know, even though almost half of the calls to poison centers in North Dakota are about children, poisonings in teens and adults tend to be some of the more serious cases? Fortunately, the poison centers have information for people of all ages – from infants to older adults.
From anywhere in the country, a person can dial 1-800-222-1222 and receive guidance from highly trained poison specialists who have the most current information regarding treatment recommendations. Factors that may affect the severity of a poison exposure are age, weight, medical history and the amount of substance involved.
Many poisonings are preventable with the safe use, storage and disposal of products and medications. On average, 90% of poisonings in America each year occur at home, and more than 60% of people who call the Poison Help phone number receive the help and guidance they need right where they are — saving the cost of a trip to a doctor or hospital.
Everyone is encouraged to add Poison Help to their important phone number directory or contact list. The number for Poison Help is 1-800-222-1222.
For general poison prevention tips and materials, visit hhs.nd.gov/prevention/poison