[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 129, 114th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
Proclamation 9241 of March 13, 2015

National Poison Prevention Week, 2015

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Household and environmental poisons pose risks to Americans of all ages.
While children under age 6 account for half of all cases of poison
exposure, more than 90 percent of poisoning deaths occur among people
over the age of 20. Poisonings are more common and more deadly than many
people realize--but they are often avoidable and treatable, and every
person can take action to guard against these preventable tragedies.
During National Poison Prevention Week, we raise awareness of the
precautions each person can take to protect their loved ones, as well as
what to do in the event of a poison emergency.
Most poisonings take place at home where cleaning products, cosmetics,
and other chemicals are stored. That is why it is important for parents
and caregivers to keep poisonous items out of their children's sight and
reach. These items should be properly labeled and stored in their
original containers--especially medicine, which is a major source of
poisoning among young people and adults. Before taking medication,
whether over-the-counter or prescribed, Americans should ensure they
understand the instructions, including the proper dosage and how to
avoid unsafe drug interactions, and discuss any questions with a doctor
or pharmacist. Everyone should also be aware of local environmental
poisons, including plants, insects, and berries; practice safe food
preparation and handling to avoid food poisoning; and guard against
carbon monoxide by installing detectors for this colorless, odorless
gas.
If you suspect someone has been poisoned, fast action is essential. Do
not wait for signs of poisoning. You should immediately call the toll-
free Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. The Poison Help line can also
connect you with experts to discuss questions about medication and other
non-emergency situations. Last year, I was proud to sign the Poison
Center Network Act, which reauthorized funding for the Poison Help line
and also supported poison control centers and nationwide efforts to
raise awareness about poison prevention and the resources available in
local communities.
Education and awareness about poisons can save lives. I encourage all
people to speak out about the importance of poison prevention and dis-
cuss these commonsense steps with their loved ones, coworkers, and
neighbors. To learn more, visit www.PoisonHelp.HRSA.gov. Information
about safe drug disposal is available at www.DEAdiversion.USDOJ.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 15 through March 21,

[[Page 3311]]

2015, 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 thirteenth day of
March, in the year of our Lord two thousand fifteen, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
ninth.
BARACK OBAMA