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Show Poison-Proofing Home Aim of Control Center Poison-Proofing the home is the focus of a campaign by the In-termountain Regional Poison Contral Center at University Medical Center. Experts at the center say a majority of accidental poisonings are preventable. "Being aware of potential hazards and taking steps to poison-proof the home are the keys to preventing poisonings," says Nancy Matyunas, Pharm.D., a clinical toxicology fellow. "Most accidental poisonings are caused by household' chemicals and medications." Household chemicals and cleaning agents should be stored in properly labeled containers and kept out of the reach of children. "Placing chemicals in a drinking glass, pop bottle or other beverage container invites a poisoning," says Dr. Matyunas. "Also, if poisonous substances from an improperly labeled container are swallowed, it may be difficult to determine exactly what the poison is. Finding out may take valuable time." "Don't underestimate the effects chemicals may have if they are spilled on skin, inhaled or ingested," she says. Of the 40,000 calls the In-termountain Regional Poison Contral Center will receive this year, 30 to 35 percent of the cases will involve medications. "Often because of tastes, color or shape, children may think medicine is candy," says Dr. Matyunas. "Medicines placed in a purse, on a bedside table, nightstand, vanity or other accessible area are an open invitation to a curious child." Child-resistant closures are a very effeclive deterrent to childhood poisonings, says Dr. Matyunas, but only if they are properly replaced on the containers. "Don't be lulled into a false sense of security, though," she warns; "child-resistant closures are not necessarily child-proof, so always keep medication out of the reach of children." "Educating ourselves and young children about the dangers of poisons in and around the home is, by far, the best way to prevent accidental poisonings," says Dr. Matyunas. University Medical Center would like to help. The Intermountaln Regional Poison Control Center cart provide audiovisual aids, educational pam-. phlets and ideas- for poison prevention to Individuals, schools, churches and civic groups. Call 581-7504 for more information. |