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There are many poisons in the typical home. Some poisons must be ingested to be harmful. Others cause damage simply by breathing them. Many chemicals are poisonous if they get in your eye. A few poisons can even be absorbed through the skin.
A LIST OF COMMON POISONS INCLUDES: - gasoline and other petroleum products
- antifreeze
- acids
- drain and tile cleaners
- furniture polish
- most cleaning products
- pesticides and herbicides
- mercury, lead, and other heavy metals
- swimming pool chemicals, including chlorine
- alcoholic beverages (in large amounts, or even small amounts if drunk by a small child)
- tobacco (when eaten by a small child) and nicotine patches or gum
- most prescription medications
- many non-prescription medications such as aspirin and paracetamol
There are a number of poisonous plants. Some of the common ones include foxglove, castor bean, oleander, and many bulbs. Take precautions to keep small children and the uninformed away from these products. Keep the telephone number of your Poisons Information Centre by your phone. You can also call them with questions about what products might be poisonous. The local fire department can advise you on how to safely dispose of hazardous products. Article #4914 Copyright (c) 2002 McKesson. All Rights Reserved. |
