From bath salts to the infamous Tide Pods, household product abuse can cause serious injury and harm. Reading the label and following proper use instructions is very important.
National Inhalants and Poisons Awareness week is held during the third week of March each year to help raise awareness about the dangers associated with misusing household products and other chemicals. This year it is observed from March 17-23. According to the Alliance for Consumer Education, children are 50% less likely to try an inhalant if an adult has had a conversation with them about the dangers associated with inhalant abuse.
Inhalant Abuse
Inhalant abuse occurs when an individual chooses to inhale a volatile substance to try to get high. Household products are abused in this way by people of various ages and economic backgrounds. Inhalant abuse can be deadly, and dangers associated with inhalant abuse are increased with prolonged use. Common household items such as spray paints and whipped cream dispensers are safe when used properly, but can quickly turn dangerous if used as an inhalant.
Children and teens are particularly vulnerable to inhalant abuse. Awareness of the danger is lower, and products that can be abused are readily accessible. It’s important to talk to your kids about the dangers associated with inhalant abuse.
Accidental Poisoning
Young children are the most likely to be susceptible to accidental poisoning as they begin to explore the world around them. Adults are more likely to be vulnerable in situations where labels were removed from products or medications were taken out of their original container. Accidental poisoning frequently occurs in the home. Medications, cleaning products, cosmetics, batteries, and other household items can cause accidental poisoning.
Keep labels on products to eliminate any confusion about what is in a container and to retain instructions for proper use. Keep household products out of the sight and reach of children. If you have small children, use child-resistant locks for cabinets and doors.
If your child has been injured due to poisoning, contact the Schuerman Law office today. Schuerman Law has been working with personal injury claims for over 40 years. John Schuerman will compassionately advocate for injured individuals as well as their families while fighting for full compensation of their claims. Schuerman Law offers evening and weekend appointments in addition to home and hospital visits. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.
