Joseph Robinette Biden

“ I call upon all Americans to observe this week by taking actions to safeguard their families from poisonous products, chemicals, and medicines often found in our homes, and to raise awareness of these dangers to prevent accidental injuries and deaths. ”

“ About 85 percent of these incidents occurred in the home, most often because they ingested blood pressure medications, acetaminophen, bleach, ibuprofen, antidepressants, attention deficit disorder medications, or laundry packets. Elderly Americans are also at risk of mistaking medications and ingesting household products; for seniors who are isolated due to the pandemic, it is particularly important to secure and clearly label medications and poisonous substances.
Poison control centers are a vital component of our Nation’s response to poisonings. ”

“ According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, overdose deaths have increased significantly in the past several years. Opioids are the main driver for this increase, killing nearly 47,000 people in the United States in 2018. ”

“ Two out of three opioid-involved overdose deaths involve synethic opioids, including illegally manufactured fentanyl. When used in combination with other drugs, with or without the user’s knowledge, it can be poisonous and deadly. ”

“ Centers across the United States operate around the clock and respond to approximately three million calls every year from the public, as well as from health care providers, 911 public-safety access points, health departments, law enforcement, first responders, and other safety agencies. ”