OKLAHOMA CITY - Oklahoma City Indian Clinic (OKCIC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit clinic providing health and wellness services to American Indians in central Oklahoma, wants you to understand poison prevention and be prepared for accidental poisoning exposures.

National Poison Prevention Week will be observed March 19 - 25, 2023 to highlight the poison risks within your home. According to the American Association of Poison Control Centers, some of the leading exposure substances are cleaning supplies and cosmetic or personal care products. These are common household items, and in 2021 Poison Help responded to more than 2 million human exposures. “Accidents happen, but you can take precautions to minimize your risk,” said Janice Hixson, OKCIC’s Chief Medical Officer.

Poison prevention is important for people of all ages. Some ways to stay safe in and out of the home include: Lock away cleaning supplies, medications, pesticides and personal care products. Keep these items in their original containers. If you have children, use a child-safe lock.

Always review the label on any medication and follow directions. When disposing of unused medications, use a takeback program. OKCIC accepts unused medications, and you can drop them off in the green box at 4913 W. Reno Ave.

Install carbon monoxide detectors in your home.

Prevent snake bites by wearing protective clothing and using a stick to scare away snakes hiding in tall grass.

Use insect repellent when you spend time outdoors.

Wash your hands after handling raw foods, and use a food thermometer to check that meat has been fully cooked to prevent food poisoning.

“If an exposure occurs, contact Poison Help,” Hixson said. “Prepare for emergencies by keeping the phone number posted in your home where it is easy to see and saving the number to your phone contacts.” Call 1-800-222-1222 to reach Poison Help and receive free and confidential advice from nationally accredited medical specialists. Every poisoning is different, so it’s important to follow the instructions you get from Poison Help.

If you think someone has been exposed, and they are having a seizure or difficulty breathing, call 911.

About Oklahoma City Indian Clinic Oklahoma City Indian Clinic was established in 1974 to provide excellent health care and wellness services to American Indians in central Oklahoma. The clinic staff cares for more than 21,000 patients from over 220 federally recognized tribes every year. American Indians can receive a range of services, including medical, dental, pediatrics, prenatal, pharmacy, optometry, physical fitness, nutrition, family programs and behavioral health services. For more information, please call (405) 9484900 or visit www.okcic.com.