Poison Prevention Week

The week of March 20 - 26 has been designated as Poison Prevention Week. This week is intended to be a reminder of the dangers that common household chemicals, pesticides, and medications can pose to anyone (adults, children and pets) if not used properly. Poisoning can occur by contact with the skin, through inhalation, or when a substance is eaten.

The danger is especially great for children - this year's theme is "Children Act Fast - So Do Poisons". Young children often put things in their mouth, and may not be able to distinguish between harmful substances (like prescription drugs) and safe substances (like candy). In 2009, the American Association of Poison Control Centers estimated that more than half of the 2.4 million poison incidents each year involve children under the age of six.

In addition to keeping chemicals and medication out of reach, another way to help prevent accidental poisoning is to properly dispose of any unwanted chemicals or medications. Why not take some time this spring to go through your medicine cabinets, kitchen cabinets and garage.

For old cleaning chemicals or pesticides:

• check with your city/county solid waste agency to see if there is a special drop off location for these items
• for anyone in Jefferson County, Indiana - SISWD Processing Center

For expired or unwanted medications:

• Check with your local waste agency, or with your local police department (especially for narcotics/controlled substances)
• Some pharmacies will also take back medication - RiteAid just started a take back program

If a poisoning does occur:

National Poison Control Hotline: 1-800-222-1222

or, dial 911 if the person has stopped breathing or collapsed

Resources for more information:
SafeKids.org
Poison Prevention.org
HealthyChildren.org

Fix a Leak Week

Water is a precious resource that everyone needs. And we all know that using water efficiently is important, especially given that some parts of the US (and the world) don't have enough fresh, clean water available when it's needed.

To draw attention to the issue, EPA has designated the week of March 14-20, 2011 as "Fix a Leak Week". On their website, EPA has a number of tips for saving water - from the simple, everyday tips to information on EPA's WaterSense label for consumer products.

Even though I know how important it is too conserve water, it's easy for me to forget and slip into bad habits. Let's take this week as a reminder to get our homes back into shape!