Coming up March 15-21,is National Poison Prevention Week. The EPA sponsors this to increase awareness of the danger that household products and pesticides pose to children. Did you know that 40 percent of all exposures involve a child under 3 years of age? How can we prevent that from happening in our home? Here are some simple rules to follow…

Know where all your toxic substances are whether in the bathroom, kitchen, garage, shed or even your purse. Have child safety locks in accessible kitchen and bathroom cabinets and drawers. Place all poisonous substances in the garage and garden shed on a high shelf. Do not leave products unattended while in use.

Follow product directions carefully. Most importantly watch young children at all times. It only takes an instant for a small child to put the wrong thing in their mouths.

If an accidental poisoning does occur, make sure your family knows the poison control number.Post it on your refrigerator and on your phone, 1-800-222-1222.