National Poison Prevention kicks off March 21

Prepare. Prevent. Protect.

Posted 3/18/21

Florida’s Poison Control Centers - Jacksonville is kicking off National Poison Prevention Week, March 21 through the 27, by educating the public on learning how...

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National Poison Prevention kicks off March 21

Prepare. Prevent. Protect.

Posted

JACKSONVILLE — Florida’s Poison Control Centers - Jacksonville is kicking off National Poison Prevention Week, March 21 through the 27, by educating the public on learning how to prevent and respond to a poisoning emergency.

“More than 90% of poisonings happen in the home so it is important to take the steps to keep your house and yard safe and save the poison control number 1-800-222-1222 in your phone in case of emergency,” said Dr. Dawn Sollee, center director. “If you do suspect a poisoning, don’t take a chance – call poison control right away.”

The American Association of Poison Control Centers has several online events scheduled for National Poison Prevention Week. More information on events can be found on Florida’s Poison Control Centers Facebook events page.
• Monday, March 22 at 1 p.m.: Partner Chat with Safe Kids Worldwide

• Tuesday, March 23 at 1 p.m.: Virtual Story Time & Tox Tales (for elementary-aged children)
• Wednesday, March 24 at 1 p.m.: Toxic Trivia with Kahoot (for teens)
• Thursday, March 25 at 1 p.m.: Tox Talk – When Life Happens (for adults)
• Friday, March 26 at 1 p.m.: Virtual Escape Room (for teens and adults)

In 2020, Florida’s Poison Control Centers handled 224,592 incoming calls, including 117,409 that were reported as known or possible exposures to potentially toxic substances (drugs, chemicals, bites/stings, food poisoning, etc.). 38% of calls involved children under the age of six, and 86% of those who called with poison emergencies from home were managed safely at home without the need for an emergency room facility visit.

“Life happens – a child accidentally drinks hand sanitizer, you get bit by a snake, someone splashes bleach in their eyes, or you take your medicine twice by mistake,” said Sollee. “We want to remind residents that a specially trained healthcare professional is only a phone call away at 1-800-222-1222, ready to provide fast and free treatment advice.”

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