[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 128, 113th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 9090--MAR. 14, 2014

Proclamation 9090 of March 14, 2014

National Poison Prevention Week, 2014

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Over the past four decades, America has seen a steep decline in
childhood deaths from accidental poisonings--thanks in part to improved
safety measures and increased public awareness. During National Poison
Prevention Week, we do our part to remain vigilant, ask our loved

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ones to use common-sense precautions, and learn about the potentially
life-saving action we can take in case of emergency.
While we have made great strides, unintentional poisoning still takes
the lives of about 30 American children every year and sends tens of
thousands to the hospital. Because the vast majority of these accidents
occur in the home, it is essential for parents and caregivers to keep
potentially harmful products--including cleaning supplies and
medication--out of their children's reach and sight. If you ever suspect
a child, family member, or anyone has been poisoned, quick action may
prevent serious injury or death. You should immediately call the toll-
free Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222.
Earlier this year, I signed the Poison Center Network Act, which
supports the hotline, a poison prevention grant program, and an aware-
ness campaign. As my Administration promotes safe practices across
our country, each of us can make our homes and communities more secure.
To safeguard against carbon monoxide, a deadly, colorless, odorless gas,
every American should have heating systems inspected
each year and install carbon monoxide alarms in their homes. And because
prescription drug overdose remains the most common cause of
fatal poisoning, we must properly store and dispose of medications.
I encourage Americans to visit www.DEAdiversion.USDOJ.gov to read about
safe prescription drug disposal and learn how to participate in the
National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day on April 26. For information on
preventing accidents and helping victims of poisoning, go to
PoisonHelp.HRSA.gov.
To encourage Americans to learn more about the dangers of accidental
poisonings and to take appropriate preventative measures, the Congress,
by joint resolution approved September 26, 1961, as amended (75 Stat.
681) has authorized and requested the President to issue a proclamation
designating the third week of March each year as ``National Poison
Prevention Week.''
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
America, do hereby proclaim March 16 through March 22, 2014, as National
Poison Prevention Week. I call upon all Americans to observe this week
by taking actions to protect their families from hazardous household
materials and misuse of prescription medicines.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fourteenth day of
March, in the year of our Lord two thousand fourteen, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
eighth.
BARACK OBAMA