To the Editor,

ONU's chapter of the Student Society of Health System Pharmacists is participating in National Poison Prevention Week, March 19-25. The week nationally highlights the dangers of poisonings and how to prevent them. 

We invite others to join the movement by participating and advocating for the importance of poison prevention. 

 According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), poisoning is the leading cause of injury death in the United States. In 2014, poison centers managed 2.9 million cases, about 2.2 million of which were about people coming into contact with dangerous or potentially dangerous substances. 

Despite the high volume of calls, poison centers treated 68 percent of cases at the exposure site, saving millions of dollars in medical expenses. 

America’s 55 poison centers provide free, expert information and treatment advice, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, through the national Poison Help line – 1-800-222-1222. Calls are answered by specially trained nurses, toxicologists, pharmacists and physicians.

Unfortunately, children under the age of 6 are most likely to be involved in an accidental poisoning. It’s hard to believe that items found around the house are considered poisons- medications, beauty products, cleaning solutions. However, there are many ways to keep kids safe from household poisons.

● Use childproof lids on medications

● Properly dispose of expired medications

● Store chemicals band cleaning products out of reach of children

For more information, please visit http://www.aapcc.org/.

Thanks,

Elaina Gollmar and Melissa Ward

ONU pharmacy students

SSHP Poison Prevention Outreach co-chairs