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Splash in the pool - not the chemicals 

Keeping a pool in top shape takes plenty of determination and
dedication. It also takes the cautious use of a variety of chemicals. The benefits of swimming pool chemicals are numerous: safe, clear, algae free water. And yet the same chemicals used to maintain and treat
swimming pool water can be potentially hazardous if not used and handled correctly.

Here are some safety tips for using pool chemicals:
* Use pool chemicals in an open, well-ventilated area.
* Be careful to avoid any direct contact with eyes or skin. If an eye or skin exposure does occur, immediately
 rinse the eye or skin for at least 15 minutes with lukewarm water. Call your local Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 for further instruction.
* If someone experiences shortness of breath, chest burning or coughing after inhaling the fumes from pool chemicals, then have the person get fresh air and call your local Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222.

For any questions or possible poisonings, call your local Poison Center in Texas at 1-800-222-1222.
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June 2016 Newsletter

Drug/Alcohol Abuse
     
Ask any teacher or teen---the level of excitement in high school hallways and classrooms is palpable. The end of the school year is fast approaching, and local teens are preparing to celebrate at proms and graduation parties around the state.
At proms, graduations, and throughout the year, underage drinking and drug-use is risky business.  Given that teens may be invited to a party where alcohol and drugs will be present, what can parents do to assure their son or daughter's evening will be substance-free and safe?
  • Before the party, talk to the parents hosting the party and get all the details. Remember that many "low-risk" kids become casualties of "high-risk" situations, so don't hesitate to gather the necessary information to make an informed decision.
  • Ask the parents hosting the party if alcohol will be served at the event. If it's a party with guests over and under age 21 and alcohol will be present, ask about their plans to prevent minors from drinking alcohol. If all of the guests will be under 21, ask about their plans to make sure that no one brings alcohol to the party.
  • Talk to your teen about what to do if he or she finds themselves at a party where alcohol or drugs are present. Let them know that even if other teens are drinking or doing drugs, you expect them not to. Tell them you'll come pick them up-no matter how late it is. Because your teen may be calling you surrounded by friends, you may want to create a "code word" that your teen can use if he/she wants you to come get them.
  • Teach your teen about the 911 Lifeline Law passed by the Texas Legislature in 2011. That law says a person under 21 won't be charged by the police for possessing or consuming alcohol if the person calls 911 because someone might have alcohol poisoning. This limited immunity applies only to the first person to call for medical assistance, only if the caller remains on the scene until medical assistance arrives and cooperates with EMS and law enforcement.This law was intended to encourage young people to do the right thing and save a life. To learn more, visit  www.awareawakealive.org.

For teens and parents alike, local poison centers are a great resource to answer any questions about alcohol and drugs. Call our specialists in poison information for questions or emergencies 24/7, at 1-800-222-1222. 
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