But these new, stronger chemical compounds are also accidental poisoning hazards that result in thousands of calls to poison centers across the country each day. Specialists at Carolinas Poison Center received 73,000 calls in 1996. Of these, more than 30,000 calls involved poison exposures to children under the age of 6. Many of these exposures happen when a product is in use or not stored properly. It is important to be conscientious about the product during its use, the location of children, and always keeping hazardous substances locked up and out of a child's reach.
Most poisonings occur when a substance is swallowed.
But poisoning exposures also include splashing, rubbing or spraying a substance on the skin, in the eyes or mouth. Breathing in gases or fumes such as carbon monoxide created when a gas appliance, kerosene heater or even the gas grill is not functioning properly can cause poisonings. Carbon monoxide is also created by car exhaust systems. Insect bites are another source of poisoning. Biting insects inject their venom into the skin.