Lawn & Garden

TO  THE  AUGLAIZE  COUNTY
HORTICULTURE  PROGRAM

     WHO TO CALL?
    

The last several weeks OSU Extension has been answering questions from itchy callers who have spent time outside and have developed rashes.  It is important for one to understand the risk of exposure to poisonous plants, how to prevent exposures and protect yourselves, and what you should do if you come in contact with these plants.

Plants generally poison by:

• Ingestion - when a person eats a part of a poisonous plant
• Contact – when a person makes contact with a poisonous plant that causes any type of skin irritation or dermatitis
• Absorption or inhalation – when a person either absorbs the poison through the skin or inhales it into the respiratory system

The United States National Poison Hotline is 1-800-222-1222.  When you call this number you will be automatically linked to the nearest poison center in the United States.  Call this number 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to talk to a poison expert.  For extensive lists of toxic and safe plants see http://www.ansci.cornell.edu/plants

There is also an Animal Poison Control Center for any animal poison-related emergency 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.  If you think your pet may have ingested a potentially poisonous substance call (888) 426-4435.  A $60 consultation fee may be applied to your credit card.  For more information see http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/plants

If you think someone’s been poisoned by eating something, remove any remaining parts of the plant or mushroom from victim’s mouth and clean out the mouth.  Give a small amount of water.  On the skin, wash any skin exposed to the plant with soap and cool water as soon as possible.  In the eyes, flush eyes with lukewarm water for 10-15 minutes.  Be very gentle, as vigorous or prolonged rinsing can hurt the eyes.  If vomiting is recommended by the Poison Control Center or your doctor, use only Syrup of Ipecac.  Do not use anything else, and do not put your finger in the throat to cause gagging, which can cause more injury.  If advised to take the person to the hospital, bring the plant or a piece of it along, or the product with the label.  Follow the first aid instructions if you can.  Then call your poison center, 911 or your local emergency number right away.