Each year, nearly 90% of poisonings occur in the home. From cleaning supplies to medications, the risk is all around us. That’s why the Poison Help line is so important: it ensures that help is just a call away. In fact, more than 70% of those who call Poison Help receive the advice they need without having to visit a healthcare professional or emergency room. This not only saves valuable time but also prevents unnecessary medical costs. Save the helpline number on your phone, 1-800-222-1222, and bookmark PoisonHelp.org in your browser so you can access it quickly.
Plants
Did you know that common houseplants can pose a serious poisoning risk? Many popular plants—such as poinsettias, pothos, peace lilies, philodendrons, and ZZ plants—are toxic to children and pets if ingested. You can prevent poisonings from houseplants by following these simple tips:
🍃 Identify any poisonous plants in your home and remove them if possible.
🍃 Place remaining poisonous plants up high and out of reach of children.
🍃 Teach your children not to eat plants, berries, or mushrooms. If your child eats a plant, call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
Medications
It’s easy to forget if you’ve taken your medication, especially if you’re busy or distracted. Here are some tips to prevent accidental double-dosing:
💊 Set medication reminders on your phone or calendar.
💊 Read labels carefully before taking medication.
💊 Use a pill organizer to help you keep track of your medications.
Edibles
Edible cannabis products can be very strong. If using edibles, remember to start with a low dose and wait for effects before eating more. Avoid combining edibles with other substances, such as alcohol or medications. If you take an edible and experience unexpected side effects like anxiety, paranoia, or hallucinations, call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
Teens
Teens are curious and may experiment with substances or participate in social media challenges. For when your teen is curious, remember to:
💬 Talk openly about the dangers of substances and social media challenges.
💬 Teach your teen about the Poison Help line and encourage them to save the number in their phone: 1-800-222-1222.
💬 Call Poison Help if you have questions about potential poisons.
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