Every day in the U.S., nearly 87 people die as a result of unintentional poisoning. More than 90% of poisonings occur in the home from substances that include over-the-counter medicines or vitamins; prescription drugs; illegal drugs; carbon monoxide; household cleaners; pesticides; plants; and metals, such as mercury and lead.

To help prevent poisonings, keep all potentially poisonous substances in locked cabinets or out of the reach of children.

If you suspect someone has been poisoned, call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222 and follow this emergency guidance:

• If the person is unconscious or having trouble breathing, call 911.
• If the person inhaled poison, get him/her fresh air right away.
• If the person has poison on the skin, take off any clothing that the poison touched and rinse skin with running water for 15-20 minutes.
• Do not use activated charcoal when you think someone may have been poisoned.
• Do not wait for signs of poisoning before calling Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222. Treatment for poisoning depends on the type of poison. When you call Poison Help, have the container of the product you think caused the poisoning nearby and be ready to provide information about the affected person.
  

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