Warm weather signals clean-up and outdoor activities! The Central Pennsylvania Poison Center warns of poisoning dangers during this time of year.

Home and Auto Care Products:

Alcohol, ammonia and detergents found in household and window cleaners and furniture polishes can be irritants. Aluminum door and siding cleaners contain acids that can be dangerous if accidentally spilled on your skin. Many products used to clean your automobile can be highly corrosive. Solvents give off toxic fumes. Use these products with care.

Paint and Petroleum Products:

Paint removers, turpentine, paint thinners, gasoline, kerosene and charcoal lighter fluid must be used with care. Fumes from these products can be toxic. Store products in original labeled containers out of the reach of children. Charcoal grills, alcohol, kerosene and propane heaters, stoves and lanterns produce carbon monoxide when burned. Always use in well-ventilated areas.

Yard and Garden Safety:

Insecticides and pesticides, when used improperly, can be extremely harmful to people and pets. Use protective clothing when spraying. Do not spray when windy. Never leave the sprayer unattended—even for a few seconds. Fertilizers and seeds coated with fungicides or insecticides can be dangerous if accidentally ingested.

Plants and Mushrooms:

Colorful blossoms and bright berries attract children and pets to plants that can be poisonous. Contact the Poison Center for information when selecting plants for the yard or home. Mushrooms appearing in the yard are potentially toxic.

Many home and office products are poisons. The majority of poisonings occur when products are in use, not when they are stored. Read labels and follow instructions carefully. Do not mix bleach with toilet bowl or household cleaners as you can create a toxic gas. Store products in original, labeled containers. NEVER reuse empty food containers to store poisonous products. Add Mr.Yuk stickers to warn of potential danger.

If you suspect a poisoning emergency, or have a question about the safety of home, car or garden products, contact the Central Pennsylvania Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222. To obtain Mr.Yuk stickers to identify poisonous products send a self addressed stamped envelope to Central PA Poison Center, PO Box 850, Hershey, PA 17033.