Be prepared with poison control info

Poisoning can happen in unexpected ways to people of any age, but most often it happens to young children who get into something they shouldn't.

Poison experts now say the old advice on poison is wrong- do not induce vomiting, it can cause more harm than good.

When the baby eats the jar of cold cream, young parents often don't know what to do, or if it's even a serious problem. The number to call for the Poison Control center is 800 222-1222 or 911, or the website is www.1-800-222-1222.info.

The website gives first aid instruction, and when you call, the experts will tell you exactly what to do. They will also follow up by phone to be sure everything is all right.

You need to have at hand as much information about the poison as possible. If you have the container, they will want you to read the ingredients to them. There may be times you don't know what the person ingested or was exposed to, but the more information you can give them, the better. Sometimes a clue like an odor or the fact that the substance was stored with pool chemicals, will tell them what they need to know.

Poison Control emphasizes, "DO NOT wait to call! If you call right away, the problem can often be taken care of over the phone. Don't wait for symptoms!"

If the Poison Control emergency operator determines you need hands-on treatment, they will call an ambulance and give them advice for treatment.

Be prepared to give your 9-1-1 address, give directions to your location, and if possible have someone out front to guide the emergency responders to the victim.