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POISON PROOF YOUR HOME, FOR KIDS' SAKE

Child safety is important to every family. The Blue Ridge Poison Center recommends poison-proofing every home where young children live or visit. Poison- proofing includes placing any potential poison either under lock and key or up high and out of reach of children. Poisons in the home include medicines, cleaners, personal care products and many items in the garage or shed.

Parents are encouraged to use child-resistant locks for cabinets and drawers where potential poisons are stored. Small medicine storage boxes with locks are good alternatives, especially for refrigerated medicines. Use child-resistant caps for prescription and over-the-counter medicines. These caps have been proven effective in keeping medicines safe from most children.

The Blue Ridge Poison Center warns parents to never tell children that medicines and vitamins are candy. Do not take medicines in front of children, as they love to imitate. Keep products in their original containers. To throw away medicine, simply flush tablets or capsules down the toilet. Watching children closely and following these guidelines is the best way to keep children safe from poisons.

Above all, post the phone number for the Blue Ridge Poison Center in a convenient spot, 1-800-451-1428, and call regarding any poison exposure or question.

July 21, 2000