Poison Control Centers Are A Valuable Resource

EL PASO, Tx – The West Texas Regional Poison Center doesn’t take up much space, but it plays a big role in treating poisoning cases in this region.

“Coming into the springtime and the summertime, everyone’s going to get the yard ready, to spend more time outdoors, so we do see an increase in the number of scorpion stings, ant bites, bee stings, rattlesnake bites, says the WTRPC’s Salvador Baeza.

And let’s not forget about the household products – some we use everyday. Products like nail polish, toothpaste, bathroon cleaner, bug spray, and detergent can pose a danger to kids.

In addition, storing chemicals in old containers is not a good idea. What looks like apple juice – stored in a plastic juice bottle – could actually be pine cleaner, so it’s important for people to keep liquids in their proper containers.

If you or a loved one are poisoned, center officials urge you to call them first – English or Spanish.

The Poison Control Hotline number is 1-800-222-1222, regardless of where you are in the country; your call will be routed to a regional poison center based on the area code of your cellphone or land line phone.

“If it’s something we can safely and appropriately treat at home, and manage at home, that’s what we want to do – save the parents a headache – save ’em and the bill from the hospital,” says Baeza.

His boss, Leo Artalejo, director of the WTRPC, echoes that sentiment, saying poison control centers help keep healthcare costs down by potentially saving the poisoned person an expensive trip by ambulance to the emergency room.

And don’t forget about these important words: Keep Out Of Reach Of Children.