Take Safety Home: Household Chemicals
The American Association of Poison Control Centers estimates that approximately 90% of poisonings occur in the home. Household chemicals and pesticides are responsible for these incidents. Some common household chemicals are cleaning products, medicines, health or beauty care products, pet shampoos, automotive chemicals (anti-freeze, windshield washer fluid, etc.), insect repellents, swimming pool chemicals, rodent poisons, and weed killers. To prevent a poisoning in your home:
- Always read the label and follow product instructions carefully.
- Lock up or restrict access to household chemicals.
- Close product containers fully when finished or if you’re interrupted during use.
- Always keep chemicals in their original containers.
- Remove children and pets from the area where dangerous chemicals are being used.
- Always use the safest product possible. Look for the Designed for the Environment label as seen here.
- Post the Poison Control hotline number near all phones or program it into your cell phone: 1-800-222-1222.
