Celebrated globally every year on April 22, Earth Day is a reminder that small, consistent actions can add up to big changes for our environment, as well as for our families. This Earth Day, California Poison Control System (CPCS) encourages you to take action by reviewing all the personal care and cleaning products in and around your home. 

Most are in pretty packaging and many have tempting colors and shapes with nice scents – yet they can all be a source of danger.

“Most people don’t think that many of the common personal care and household products that we have daily contact with in our homes can actually be dangerous for us or our environment,” says Dr. Rais Vohra, medical director for the Fresno/Madera Division of CPCS. “However, while some substances are toxic, other harmless substances can be poisonous in large enough quantities. But with proper precautions, you can protect our environment as well as your family’s health.”

Mercury, for example, is highly toxic and even small amounts are environmentally damaging and harmful to humans and animals. However, the California Department of Public Health said mercury is still found in skincare products that are marketed to lighten and brighten your skin. Using products that contain mercury puts the whole family at risk – especially children and women of reproductive age or who are pregnant. In fact, the World Health Organization said mercury is one of the top 10 chemicals of major public health concerns.

When used as directed, the majority of household cleaning products are safe. However, keep in mind that the chemicals in many cleaners can be harmful to you if not used properly and hazardous to the environment if not properly disposed of. The ingredients can not only irritate your skin, throat, eyes or nose but can also be poisonous if swallowed, even in small doses.

“Since many of these products can be a source of poisoning, CPCS is offering these safety tips to help us change how we deal with our home environment, and the many products we have there that can be hazardous to our health,” said Vohra.

Safety Tips

●Never leave personal care products out and unattended.

●Eye drops can be particularly dangerous for children – if  swallowed, they can cause breathing problems, seizures, and unconsciousness – so make sure to keep them out of children’s reach.

●Keep cosmetics away from extreme temperatures and make sure the containers are tightly closed when not in use.  a

●Toss out cosmetics that have any changes in color or smell.

●Avoid inhaling fumes when using aerosols and sprays by using them in well-ventilated areas.

●Store all cleaners and personal care products securely out of sight, not in places such as under the sink where children can reach them – and use child safety locks for cabinets.

●Avoid mix-ups by making sure to store household products separately from food and drinks.

●Don’t leave containers open or alone.

●Always use cleaning products as directed on the product’s “directions for use” label.

●Keep cleaners and disinfectants in their original containers; don’t put small amounts in another container. Too often, food or beverage containers are used and can lead to accidental consumption.

●Never mix cleaners; it could be dangerous. For example: bleach + ammonia = poisonous gas – use just one cleaner at a time.

●Cleaners, such as bleach or ammonia, can irritate skin, throat and eyes, so use safety equipment such as glasses, gloves and masks. Also, make sure the area is well ventilated.

●Clean up any spills or leaks immediately.

●“Natural” and “green” products are still cleaners, so use them with the same care as you would any other cleaner.

CPCS also suggests saving this toll-free Poison Hotline number, 1-800-222-1222, available 24/7, for any questions you may have.