A line of tiki torches in a summer backyard.Summer in Iowa means sunshine, backyard cookouts, camping trips, and long days outdoors. It is a favorite time of year for many families, but it also brings an increase in accidental poison exposures.

At the Iowa Poison Control Center, we receive more calls during the summer about foodborne illness, insect bites and bee stings, pesticides, and other seasonal hazards.

Below are practical, easy-to-follow summer safety tips to help protect your family, pets, and guests all season long.

Food Safety & Food Poisoning Prevention

Summer heat creates the perfect environment for bacteria to grow. Following proper food safety guidelines is one of the most important steps in poison prevention.

Smart Food Safety Tips

  • Wash hands, counters, and utensils before and after preparing food.
  • Keep cold foods at 40°F (5°C) or below.
  • Do not leave food out for more than 2 hours (or 1 hour in extreme heat).
  • Store meat, poultry, seafood, dairy, eggs, mayonnaise-based salads, and cut fruit in coolers with ice packs.
  • Marinate foods in the refrigerator.
  • Wash cutting boards and dishes with hot, soapy water after handling raw meat.
  • Keep raw meat separate from ready-to-eat food.

Practicing good food safety reduces the risk of foodborne illness at picnics, reunions, and cookouts.

Food Poisoning Symptoms

Common food poisoning symptoms include:

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Stomach cramps
  • Fever
  • Headache

Symptoms of food poisoning in children may also include unusual sleepiness, irritability, or refusal to drink fluids. Young children can become dehydrated quickly, so early attention is important.

Lighter Fluid, Gasoline, and Lamp Oils

Hydrocarbons such as lighter fluid, gasoline, tiki torch fuel, and lamp oils can be especially dangerous if swallowed or inhaled. They are often brightly colored or scented, making them attractive to children.

  • Store locked up and out of reach.
  • Keep in original containers.
  • Never leave unattended during gatherings.

Common Poisonous Plants & Mushrooms

Iowa yards, parks, and trails are home to many common poisonous plants. Children and pets are especially at risk because they explore with their hands and mouths. If skin comes in contact with poison ivy or a similar plant, rinse the skin with soap and water as soon as possible and call the Poison Help line for further guidance.

To prevent poisonings, never eat wild mushrooms. Symptoms of mushroom poisoning vary, so if an ingestion is suspected, call the Poison Help line immediately to discuss treatment. Do not wait for symptoms to appear.

Bites, Stings, & Venomous Animals

Warmer weather means more encounters with insects and wildlife.

Bee Stings & Insect Bites

A bee sting usually causes redness, swelling, and pain. However, some people have severe allergic reactions. Go to the emergency room immediately if you are experiencing:

  • Trouble breathing
  • Hives
  • Swelling of the face, eyes, or mouth
  • Dizziness

For non-emergency concerns about bites or stings, call the Poison Help line for guidance: 1-800-222-1222.

Spider Bites

Most spider bites are harmless. However, the black widow and brown recluse spiders can cause illness. Symptoms may include:

  • Muscle pain or stiffness
  • Fever or chills
  • Nausea
  • A blister or “bull’s-eye” wound

Iowa is among the states where black widow and brown recluse spiders may be found. Call us if you suspect a serious spider bite.

Snake Bites

Iowa has both non-venomous and venomous snakes. If you suspect a snake bite, call poison help immediately. Our specialists will assess the situation and guide the next steps. Do not attempt to cut the wound or suck out venom.

Pesticide Safety & Lawn Chemicals

Summer yard care increases exposure to weed killers, insecticides, and fertilizers. Practicing proper pesticide safety protects children, pets, and adults.

  • Always read and follow label instructions.
  • Wear gloves or protective gear if directed.
  • Keep children and pets away from treated areas until dry.
  • Store products locked up and in original containers.
  • Never transfer chemicals into food or drink containers.

These simple poison prevention steps can prevent serious exposures.

Pool Chemical Safety

Pool chemicals help keep water clean and safe, but they can cause serious injury if not used or stored properly. Follow these safety tips to reduce risk:

  • Store chemicals in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
  • Keep all products in their original containers with labels intact and lids tightly closed.
  • Always store chemicals out of reach and sight of children and pets.
  • Read and follow label instructions carefully, including recommended protective gear.
  • Add chemicals to water rather than adding water to chemicals to prevent splashing or dangerous reactions.
  • Never mix different pool chemicals, as this can create toxic gases or cause explosions.

Safe handling and storage of pool chemicals helps prevent accidental poisonings, so you can enjoy your pool with peace of mind.

Insect Repellent Use

Insect repellents can be helpful, but must be used correctly. Safe use includes:

  • Follow all label instructions carefully.
  • An adult should apply repellent to children.
  • Wash treated skin with soap and water after returning indoors.
  • Avoid the eyes and mouth.
  • Do not apply to broken or irritated skin.

Using more than recommended does not increase protection and may increase risk.

Firework Safety

Fireworks may contain chemicals that can be harmful if swallowed, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. Children may mistake fireworks for toys or candy.

Practice firework safety:

  • Store fireworks locked, out of sight, and out of reach of children.
  • Supervise children closely.
  • Wash your hands after handling.

If fireworks are swallowed, get into the eyes, or cause skin exposure, contact the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 right away.

Poison Help Is Here 24/7

Accidents happen, even when you’re careful. The Iowa Poison Control Center provides free, confidential expert advice 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Many exposures can be safely managed at home with guidance from our medical specialists, saving you time, stress, and unnecessary emergency room visits.

If you suspect poisoning, call the Poison Help line immediately at 1-800-222-1222.

Have questions about safety tips for summer? We’re just one call away.