Preparation and Survival Task #7. Continue Your Area Study: Your Home, Prevent Poisoning.

I know these tasks about the home seem mundane and not as sexy as learning to start a fire with a box and piece of wood, but I emphasize the things you’re more likely to deal with first. The most likely threats.

It is more likely for children to be seriously hurt or killed by ingesting a toxic agent.

To prevent poisoning

Label all unmarked liquid containers. If you wonder what’s in that old plastic jug or bottle, assume it’s poison. NEVER use food or drink containers to store hazardous material.

Store cleaning products safely and out of reach of children.

Store medicines securely and out of reach of children.

Put child proof cabinet locks on all doors within reach of children.

Have the poison control phone number posted in your kitchen and on speed dial on your cell phone. 800–222–1222.

Never mix household cleaning products together. Some don’t like each other and produce toxic gasses, particularly bleach and ammonia.

Never mix medicines together without consulting a doctor or pharmacist. Or call the poison help hotline which is monitored 24 hours a day and they can give you advice: 800–222–1222.

Monitor your heaters and fireplaces for CO2 emissions. Have fireplaces cleaned yearly.