Protect Yourself from Household Chemicals

The following tips can help to prevent accidental poisoning from household chemicals:

• Keep products in their original containers with the labels in place. Often, the label can provide important information about the product and what to do in case of poisoning.
  
  
• Store foods separately from household chemicals. Containers often look similar, making it easy for both children and adults to make mistakes. If possible, store cleaning products outside the kitchen.
  
  
• Do not mix different products. Mixing products can create poisonous gases.
  
  
• Store household chemicals out of reach of small children. Use safety locks on cabinets and avoid storing potentially dangerous products in cabinets close to the floor or ground.
  
  
• Watch children closely when using cleaning products. Most poisonings occur while the cleaning product is being used. Return all cleaning products to their original storage location immediately after use.
  
  
• Wear appropriate protective clothing when using spray products and pesticides. Protective clothing can include long sleeves, pants, gloves, socks, and shoes.
  
  
• Avoid areas where pesticides have recently been sprayed. Pesticides are absorbed easily through the skin and can be poisonous.
  
  
• Discard old or outdated products that could represent a poisoning hazard.