03/20/2026
It's National Inhalants and Poison Awareness Week. More than 90% of all poison exposures in children occur in the child's home. >1 million calls are made every year to poison control centers regarding children between the ages of 0-5 years old. Of young children, 57% of poison exposures are non-medicine items, such as cleaning supplies and cosmetics, while 43% are medicines. In a study done by Beauman, Dean, and Krenzelok, 68% of motor vehicle poisonings were children. 44% of those poisonings were due to inhaling, and 36% were due to ingestion, including but not limited to medications, auto products, and makeup items.
This week, take a moment to think about what you are carrying, and remember that kids are always observing and curious about their surroundings. Keep medicines, cleaners, and other harmful items out of their reach. Simple steps, like storing things safely, reading the label, and talking with children about safety, can help prevent accidents and save lives. Your awareness today protects their tomorrow.
