As part of their outreach efforts for National Poison Prevention Week, the Illinois Poison Center (IPC) is warning of the potential dangers that Illinoisians face daily. Every year, thousands of Illinois residents fall victim to accidental poisonings, resulting in numerous emergency room visits and fatalities.

Poisoning and overdoses have claimed more lives than car crashes and firearm incidents combined, being the number one reason for injury related deaths for residents ages 25-64.  In 2023, IPC handled over 72,000 cases, solving 92% of them over the phone. 

The IPC is working to raise awareness about the risks of potential poisoning and encouraging residents to practice prevention measures. Household items such as cleaning products, medications, and even certain plants can pose serious risks. The IPC reminds people to store these items out of reach of children and pets, and to ensure proper labeling and storage to minimize the risk of accidental exposure.

Calling the IPC’s helpline at 1-800-222-1222 is the fastest way to seek help when you or someone you know has had poison exposure and calls are confidential. To learn more about ways to keep people of all ages safe and help prevent poisonings, visit the IPC’s website here.