March 1-31

Poison Prevention Awareness Month

An awareness observance in March educating the public on poisoning risks from household products and medicines to help prevent accidental poisonings in children.

Yearly Date

All of March

Observed in

United States

Introduction

Get ready to spread awareness and take action during Poison Prevention Awareness Month this March 1! This important month-long campaign was first launched in 1961 by the National Poison Prevention Week Council to educate people about the dangers of unintentional poisoning and how to prevent it. It's a time for families, schools, and communities to come together and learn about ways to keep themselves safe from accidental poisonings. By working together, we can create a safer environment for everyone. So join in on the fun and let's make sure our loved ones stay healthy and happy!

Poison Prevention Awareness Month Timeline

1961

Launch of Poison Prevention Week

The National Poison Prevention Week Council launched the first Poison Prevention Week to raise awareness about accidental poisonings.

1970

Government Involvement

The U.S. government became more involved in poison prevention, leading to stricter regulations on product packaging and labeling.

1983

First Poison Control Center

The first Poison Control Center was established, providing a vital resource for immediate access to poisoning information and treatment advice.

1999

Nationwide Hotline

The launch of a nationwide poison control hotline provided 24/7 assistance for poisoning emergencies.

2012

Expansion to Poison Prevention Month

The observance expanded from a week to a month-long campaign, widening its reach and increasing awareness of poison prevention strategies.

How to Celebrate Poison Prevention Awareness Month

1 Educate yourself and your loved ones

Take the time to learn about common poisons and how to prevent accidental ingestion. Share this information with your family, friends, and community to raise awareness.

2 Check your home for potential hazards

Take a walk around your home and check for any potential poisons that may be within reach of children or pets. Store them in a safe place or dispose of them properly.

3 Create a poison prevention plan

Make a plan with your family on what to do in case of accidental poisoning. This can include having emergency numbers on hand, knowing the signs of poisoning, and having a first aid kit ready.

4 Attend a local event

Many communities host events during Poison Prevention Awareness Month to educate and promote safety. Attend one of these events to learn more and show your support for the cause.

5 Spread the word on social media

Use your social media platforms to share information and tips on poison prevention. This can help reach a larger audience and raise awareness about the issue.

Why Poison Prevention Awareness Month is Important

It helps raise awareness about common household hazards

During Poison Prevention Awareness Month, different organizations and health agencies promote safety measures to prevent accidental poisonings. This includes identifying and properly storing potentially harmful substances that can be found at home, such as cleaning products, medications, and even plants.

It educates people on how to respond in emergency situations

Poison Prevention Awareness Month also focuses on teaching individuals about proper first aid techniques in case of accidental poisoning. Knowing what to do in an emergency situation can greatly increase the chances of a positive outcome.

It saves lives

Accidental poisonings can happen to anyone, regardless of age or background. By raising awareness about this issue and promoting preventive measures, Poison Prevention Awareness Month ultimately helps save lives and reduce the number of poison-related accidents each year.

Holiday Dates

Year	Dates	Days
2023	Mar 1 to 31	Wednesday to Friday
2024	Mar 1 to 31	Friday to Sunday
2025	Mar 1 to 31	Saturday to Monday
2026	Mar 1 to 31	Sunday to Tuesday
2027	Mar 1 to 31	Monday to Wednesday