South Heartland District Health Department

April 18, 2025

For immediate help with poisoning, call 1-800-222-1222.

For additional information about poisoning and the Nebraska Regional Poison center, visit their website.

Poison Control

What the Public Should Know

Who to call first – NRPC pharmacists and nurses give free, confidential help via 800‑222‑1222; 70 % of cases are fully managed at home, avoiding an ER visit. Sources: Home aapcc .org
Leading risks to kids – Analgesics, cosmetics, and cleaning liquids are the top three substances in <6‑year‑olds.Sources: aapcc.org
Emerging risks – Opioid‑involved poisoning calls rose 8 % statewide in 2024, mirroring national overdose trends. Sources: CDC
Seasonal hazards – Carbon‑monoxide exposures spike every winter; Nebraska DHHS urges yearly furnace checks and CO alarms on every floor.Sources: Nebraska DHHS
Recalls matter – Lead‑contaminated baby food, button‑battery toys, and mislabeled cleaners were recalled in the past year; check CPSC alerts regularly. Sources: People.com, Consumer Product Safety Commission

Add Poison Help to your phone (or text POISON to 301‑597‑7137 for a digital contact card). Source: aapcc.org
Download the free Poison Help mobile app for quick first‑aid steps. Sources: Nebraska DEE
Subscribe to SHDHD “Home Safety” emails—we relay high‑priority recalls and seasonal tips. Coming soon!
Check DEA’s Take‑Back map to find year‑round drug drop boxes near Hastings and surrounding counties. Sources: DEA, DEA
Follow CPSC Recalls at cpsc.gov/recalls for real‑time alerts. Sources: Consumer Product Safety Commission

Audience	Key Action	Why It Helps
Parents & Caregivers	Store meds & cleaners up, away, and locked	Half of childhood poisonings occur when items are left in sight. Sources: aapcc.org
	Use original dosing device, never a kitchen spoon	Prevents overdosing liquid medicine
Older Adults	Keep a written or digital med list; use pill organizers	Reduces double‑dosing and harmful interactions
Homeowners	Install CO alarms & vent fuel‑burning appliances annually	CO is the #1 fatal poisoning in U.S. homes. Sources: Nebraska DHHS
Pet Owners	Keep chocolate, xylitol, and OTC pain meds secure	NRPC logged >600 pet calls last year; most involved food toxins. Sources: aapcc.org
Everyone	Drop off unused meds at DEA sites or local police lobby	Cuts overdose risk & environmental harm. Sources: DEA, DEA

Poison Prevention Toolkit – printable checklists, kid‑friendly activity sheets, and magnet templates.
School & Daycare Trainings – 30‑minute safety sessions by NRPC educators (request via tam.pauley@shdhd.ne.gov or devi.dwarabandam@shdhd.ne,gov).
Free cabinet‑lock kits – available to low‑income families while supplies last; call 402‑462‑6211.