Poison Prevention

The vast majority of accidental poisonings that occur are preventable. Yet, each year, poison control centers receive thousands of calls about accidental poisoning incidents. The reasons why these poisonings continue to occur are not known. Some possible explanations include improper storage of household products, "home brewed" products stored in unmarked containers and mishandling of products during use. However, the best answer to the question, "Why do unintentional poisonings occur and how can they be prevented?" can only come from thorough research. The research results can then be used to develop useful, readily available information that can be used to educate consumers on concrete measures that can be taken to prevent unintentional poisonings.

ACE's partnership with the National SAFE KIDS Campaign, The American Association of Poison Control Centers and its work with the Pittsburgh Poison Control Center and industry efforts such as child resistant closures, poise the foundation as a credible voice on the issue of poison prevention. This program offers opportunities for additional partnerships and potentially groundbreaking research that could help reduce the number of unintentional poisonings.

The goal of ACE's program is to investigate the real reasons unintentional poisonings occur, raise public awareness of the problem and safety measures, and position ACE as a credible information resource for the media, policymakers and the general public.