Like A Poison

For many years now, people around the country have relied on Poison Control Centers. That may not be the case much longer.

Due to the current economic crisis, budget cuts in states across the country are threatening to close poison control centers. We need the help of the public to inform state decision-makers that you value your poison center.

People who may have been exposed to poison can obtain free medical assistance by calling 1-800-222-1222 nationwide. There are currently 60 poison control centers across our country. Those poison centers receive more than four million calls annually, and poisoning incidents are on the rise. Poisoning deaths are second only to motor vehicle crashes as the leading cause of injury death in the United States. Almost 90 percent of the public who call a local poison center get the help they need over the phone without having to go to a doctor or the hospital. Cutting poison center funds will translate into increased medical spending as people turn to emergency rooms and other health care providers for help.

Source: The American Association of Poison Control Centers (who knew?)