                                           XII
                                        POISONING

Over a million cases of poisoning occur in the United States each
year, most involving young children. Obviously, then, PREVENTION of
poisoning should be the concern of every parent with young
children. ALL substances likely to cause poinsoning should be kept
away from inquiring youngsters!

Since various poisons cause different symptoms, and because
treatments vary depending upon the substance injested, the first
step in the event of poisoning is to call the local POISON CONTROL
CENTER! DO NOT WAIT FOR SYMPTOMS TO OCCUR! IDENTIFY THE NATURE
OF
THE POISON AND RECEIVE SPECIFIC CARE INSTRUCTIONS FROM THE
PROFESSIONAL STAFF AT THE CENTER!

All poisoning victims need to be monitored carefully for signs of
shock or impaired consciousness.

Every household should keep ACTIVATED CHARCOAL & SYRUP OF IPECAC on
hand for possible use in poisoning emergencies, however they should
not be administered unless instructed by the Poison Control Center
staff.





