March 17-23 is National Poison Prevention Week

BISMARCK, N.D. - March 17-23 is nationally recognized as Poison Prevention Week. Whether it’s a question or an emergency, Poison Help can provide life-saving information when people need it most. North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) is raising awareness about the risks posed by poisonous substances and precautions people can take to keep themselves and their families safe.

This year’s theme is “When the unexpected happens, we’re here for you 24/7.” Poisoning can happen to anyone at any age. That is why Poison Help and the 55 poison centers across the nation are here for everyone. In a poisoning emergency, individuals can access fast, free guidance by calling Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222 or visiting PoisonHelp.org.

Poison Help can assist with medication-related questions and concerns including:

Ingestion of medications that resemble candy or flavored drinks,
A refill that looks different,
Possible medication mix-ups,
When print on a label is hard to read, or
Accidental double dosage may have occurred, and more.

On average, 90% of poisonings in the U.S. each year occur at home. More than 60% of people who call Poison Help receive the help and guidance they need right where they are, saving the cost of a trip to a health care provider or hospital.

HHS encourages everyone to add Poison Help to their important phone number directory or contact list. The number for Poison Help is 1-800-222-1222.

Many poisonings are preventable with safe use, storage and disposal of products and medications. For general poison prevention tips and materials, visit https://ndpoison.org.

Lady on cell phone

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