I'd like to you and your family to go on a "Scavenger Hunt for Poisons" in your home. (Do you know what a poison is? It's something that can hurt you or kill you if you eat it, drink it, smell it, or sometimes even touch it!) To join the Scavenger Hunt, all you need is a grown-up, a pen or pencil, and my official Scavenger Hunt Checklist.
Print out my checklist and then walk from room to room in your home with a grown-up. In each room, write down the name of each poison you find. Here's an important rule: don't touch the poisons! Poisons should be handled by grown-ups only. In fact, some poisons are so dangerous that they need to be kept in a locked cabinet, out of the reach and sight of children. It's a good idea to keep the telephone number of your local Poison Control Center by the phone in case of an emergency. You can also dial the "0" to reach the Operator for help.
 To help you get started, here are a few examples of poisons that some people have in their homes:
- soaps and detergents (near sinks and washing machines)
- plants (the leaves, berries, and flowers on some plants can make you sick if you eat them)
- medicines (a grown-up should give you medicine if you don't feel well, but the wrong medicine or too much medicine can make you sick)
- gasoline (some people keep gasoline in the garage to fuel lawn mowers and other equipment)
Once you've filled in the spaces on your checklist, hang it on your refrigerator or bulletin board so that you'll remember to stay away from poisons. If you have younger brothers or sisters in your home, make sure they stay away from poisons too! |
