National Poison Prevention Week: Protecting Your Home from Hidden Hazards
Every year, thousands of poison-related emergencies happen in homes across the country. Many of these incidents occur quickly and involve everyday household items such as medications, cleaning products, and small batteries.
During National Poison Prevention Week (March 16–22, 2026), the Statesville Fire Department is reminding residents that poisoning can happen in seconds, but simple prevention steps can greatly reduce the risk.
Firefighters and emergency responders often see firsthand how quickly these situations can become serious. Taking time to identify and secure potential hazards inside your home can help protect your family and prevent emergencies before they happen.
Poison Risks Often Start at Home
Many poisoning incidents occur inside the home and involve common household products. Medicines, cleaning supplies, chemicals, and other everyday items can become dangerous when they are accessed by children, used incorrectly, or accidentally ingested.
To reduce risk:
- Keep medicines, cleaning products, and chemicals in their original containers
- Store them up high, out of sight, and locked away
- Never mix cleaning products such as bleach and ammonia
- Be aware of hidden hazards such as button batteries and liquid nicotine
Safe storage and proper use of these products can prevent many accidental poison exposures.
Protecting Young Children
Children under five are at the highest risk for accidental poisoning because they explore the world by touching, tasting, and putting objects in their mouths. Items that may seem harmless to adults can be extremely dangerous for young children.
Families can reduce risk by taking a few simple precautions:
- Store medications and vitamins up high and locked away
- Keep cleaning products out of reach and secured, especially under sinks
- Avoid leaving pills on counters, bedside tables, or in purses
- Choose products with child resistant packaging
Even small amounts of certain medications or chemicals can be harmful to children, which makes safe storage critical.
Watch for Hidden Household Dangers
Some of the most dangerous poisons in a home are items that do not appear harmful at first glance. Small household objects and modern products can pose significant risks if swallowed or misused.
Common hidden hazards include:
- Button batteries found in remotes, toys, and key fobs
- Liquid nicotine used in vaping products
- Laundry detergent pods and cleaning products
- Prescription medications
These items should always be stored up, away, and locked where children cannot access them.
Know What to Do in a Poison Emergency
If a poisoning or exposure happens, acting quickly can make a critical difference.
Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222. Poison Control experts are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to provide immediate guidance. The call is free, confidential, and available nationwide. If someone is unconscious, having trouble breathing, or experiencing severe symptoms, call 911 immediately.
Residents can also visit www.poison.org for online guidance in certain poisoning situations.
Prevention Starts with Awareness
National Poison Prevention Week is a reminder that many poison-related emergencies are preventable. By storing hazardous products safely, keeping medications secured, and knowing what to do in an emergency, families can significantly reduce risk.
The Statesville Fire Department is committed to protecting the community through prevention, education, and emergency response. Taking a few moments to review safety practices in your home can help keep your family safe.
If you suspect a poisoning, remember the number: Poison Control – 1-800-222-1222
A quick call can save a life.
