Summer in Iowa means more time outside and more encounters with mosquitoes and ticks. To help prevent bites, many families use insect repellents. One of the most common questions parents ask is:
Summer means more grilling, bonfires, camping, and yard work. But products commonly used during warm weather — like gasoline, lighter fluid, charcoal starter, lamp oil, and torch fuel — can be very dangerous if swallowed or inhaled, especially for children.
Many of these products are called hydrocarbons, a group of chemicals found in fuels and oils. Even a small amount can cause serious breathing problems if it accidentally goes into the lungs.
Warmer weather means more time outside, and for kids, that often means exploring everything within reach.
Unfortunately, that curiosity sometimes includes putting things in their mouths that aren’t meant to be eaten.
The good news? Most of these situations can be managed safely with the right guidance, and that’s where the Iowa Poison Control Center (IPCC) comes in.
Intentional self-poisoning is the most common method by which youth attempt suicide. The complexity and severity of poisoning and overdose cases managed by the IPCC is increasing. 1. The IPCC is providing a vital service for all Iowans. The IPCC provides 24/7 poison information and emergency treatment advice for all...
Radon is a serious – but preventable – health risk found in many Iowa homes. Because it has no smell, taste, or color, families often don’t know it’s there until they test for it. January is National Radon Action Month, making it an ideal time to learn about radon, test...
Across Iowa, rural hospitals, clinics, and first responders play a vital role in keeping their communities safe. But when distance, weather, or limited local resources make access to specialized care a challenge, the Iowa Poison Control Center (IPCC) helps bridge the gap, connecting every corner of the state to expert...
More medicines are being made in gummy form, from vitamins to pain relievers and cold products. While convenient, they can easily be mistaken for candy by children. If your child swallows medicine they shouldn’t, whether pills, liquid, or gummies, knowing what to do right away can prevent serious harm. Is...
The new school year is here! As families in Iowa adjust to new schedules, busy mornings, and after-school activities, it’s the perfect time to revisit safety at home. While backpacks, lunches, and homework may be top of mind, poison prevention should be on every parent’s checklist. The Iowa Poison Control...
As a parent, there's no greater fear than seeing your child in danger. For one mom, that fear became a terrifying reality when her curious five-year-old decided to taste the "tiny grapes" growing on a vine up the side of their front yard tree. In the blink of an eye,...
As the seasons change and the weather warms, Iowans aren't the only ones emerging from their homes. Insects like ants and wasps become more active, leading many to reach for ant killers and wasp sprays. While these products can be effective at controlling pests, they can also pose a significant risk to the health and safety of our children.
