TEARS FOR CHLOE

Keeping Children Safe from Poisoning 1. Keep all household products and medicines locked up, out of sight and out of reach. 2. Use child-resistant packaging properly by closing the container securely after each use or choose child-resistant unit packaging, which does not need to be re-secured. 3. Call 1-800-222-1222 immediately in case of poisoning. 4. When products are in use, keep children in your sight, even if you must take them along when answering the phone or doorbell. 5. Keep items in original containers. 6. Leave the original labels on all products, and read the label before using. 7. Do not put decorative lamps and candles that contain lamp oil where children can reach them. Lamp oil can be very toxic if ingested by young children. 8. Always turn the light on when giving or taking medicine so you can see what you are taking. Check the dosage every time. 9. Avoid taking medicine in front of children. 10. Clean out the medicine cabinet periodically and safely dispose of unneeded and outdated medicines.

Ellsworth observes National Poison Prevention Week

Published March 17, 2010
By Airman 1st Class Jarad A. Denton
28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs

ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. -- With the week of March 14 to 20 designated as National Poison Prevention Week the Ellsworth community is encouraged to stay conscious of dangerous substances, which can be found in the most common items.

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resources and Services Administration, poisonings occur more often than car accidents or fires. They also indicate about 90 percent of reported poisonings every year happen at home and about one million of all reported poisonings are reported for children under the age of six.

"The number one way to prevent poisoning in children is to keep the poison out of reach of the child and stored safely," said Maj. Garrett Heitmann, 28th Medical Support Squadron pharmacist. "Children are naturally curious and often will look anywhere within their reach. Unfortunately, many medications are brightly colored and may even look like candy to a child."

According to HRSA, prescription medication is a commonly overlooked danger for both children and adults. Along with medication, there are several other household substances that can be dangerous if used improperly. Some of the substances that may often cause poisoning among children include:

· medicines
· pesticides
· hydrocarbons (such as lamp oil, kerosene, gasoline, lighter fluid)
· plants

Among adults, these substances can often cause poisonings:

· pain medicines
· alcohol
· venom from bites and stings
· spoiled food
· beauty products

Major Heitmann encourages people to store all potentially toxic items in a secure place, out of the reach of children.

"The pharmacy at the 28th Medical Group is available to offer advice on prescription medications including proper use and toxicities," he said. "However, if there is a true emergency needing immediate attention the patient should seek treatment at an emergency room."

To report a case of poisoning contact the national Poison Help number at (800) 222-1222. For more information on prescription medication contact the Ellsworth pharmacy at (605) 385-3250.