Poison & Prevention Information By Age : Adults

Poison Prevention Tips

  • Be prepared.
    • Put the poison control number (1-800-222-1222, U.S. only) in, on or near your phone.
    • Save  as a browser favorite (webPOISONCONTROL.org).
  • Install a carbon monoxide alarm in every sleeping area of your home. Keep appliances, furnaces, fireplaces and wood-burning stoves in good repair.
  • Store medicines and products in their original containers.
  • If children live in or visit your home, use child-resistant packaging. Replace caps securely.
  • Store household products in a different place from food and medicine.
  • Use medicines safely.
    • Turn on the lights and read the label before taking or giving medicine. Follow directions exactly.
    • Don't take someone else's medicine.
    • If a medicine doesn't work, don't take extra doses. Contact your health care provider.
  • Use household products as directed on the label. Mixing products can release dangerous gases.
  • Have children? Check out the poison prevention tips for the ages of your children.
  • Follow guidelines for personal protective equipment and ventilation at work.

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