Viva Vitality: Rethink What Poison Means
By Melissa Schlenker
Every March during National Poison Prevention week, Canadians are invited to pause and reflect on a danger often hiding in plain sight. When we think of poisons, most people picture a bottle with a skull and crossbones symbol on it. But in fact, poisons can be far more ordinary than you might think. Medications, vitamins, cosmetics, personal care items, and even some plants can pose a risk for unintentional poisoning.
The leading cause of poisoning in Canada is medication. According to data from the Injury Prevention Center, there are 100 calls every day to poison centers about pain medications. This doesn’t just include those medications that are prescribed but also over the counter pain medications such as acetaminophen (like Tylenol) and ibuprofen (like Advil). We may assume that over the counter medications or natural products like vitamins are harmless because they’re easy to access and don’t require a prescription. But if not used properly, they can be dangerous.
Young children are particularly vulnerable to unintentional poisoning, as they often explore the world around them by putting things in their mouths. To a curious toddler, a pill can look like a brightly coloured candy, or cough syrup like a refreshing drink. The Injury Prevention Center reports that half of poisonings requiring hospital treatment for children aged 0-5 years involved medication. And of those, 1 in 3 of involved over the counter medications.
So how do we keep our children safe?
Store medications locked up tight and out of sight. This includes prescriptions, over-the-counter medications and vitamins. Locked boxes or bags stored in a high cupboard or on top of the fridge can help keep these items away from curious hands.
Don’t rely on child-resistant packaging alone. A child may still be able to find their way into even the most secure container.
Always keep products in their original containers. Never transfer medications to food or drink containers.
Never refer to medications as candy. Chewable/gummy medications or vitamins may be tempting for children. It’s important to let them know the difference between which are medication and which are actual candy.
Dispose of unused medications safely. Return expired or unused medications to your local pharmacy for proper disposal.
Be mindful of visitors. Keep guests’ bags and coats out of reach of children, as they could contain medications, vitamins, or cannabis products stored in easily accessible pockets.
Poison prevention is about awareness, rather than fear. Taking simple precautions can help save lives.
If you suspect a poisoning, call Alberta’s Poison and Drug Information Service (PADIS) right away. Their toll-free number can be accessed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 1-800-332-1414. If the individual is unconscious, having a seizure, or struggling to breathe, call 911.
For more information on poison prevention, please visit injurypreventioncentre.ca.
Melissa Schlenker is a health promotion facilitator with Primary Care Alberta.