North Texas Poison Center and National Poison Prevention Week

Poisonings can happen anywhere and to anyone. While the majority of poisonings happen at home, they can also occur in the workplace, schools or other public places and affect young children, teenagers, adults and the elderly. Poisonings remain the leading cause of injury death, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That is why the observance of National Poison Prevention Week – from March 17 to March 23 – is so important. The theme for this year is, “When the unexpected happens, Poison Help is here for you 24/7,” according to experts at the North Texas Poison Center& located at Parkland Health. Related Stories “This annual observance focuses attention on poison centers around the country that provide prevention education year-round to help reduce the number of accidents and raises awareness that health professionals are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to help with any concerns or questions,” said Lizbeth Petty, MPH, public health educator manager at the NTPC. Nationally, 55 poison centers provide services to all 50 states. Anyone who needs assistance anywhere in the country can dial the toll-free number 1-800-222-1222 and be connected to one of the centers. In 2023, NTPC staff responded...