Use and Store Household Products Safely

You probably use many household chemical products in and around your home and garage. These products may include cleaning liquids, powders, polishes, and cleaners. To protect your family, it’s important to use, store and dispose of household chemicals carefully.

Read the labels on chemical products before you buy or use them and follow the label’s instructions to ensure safe handling and storage.

Product labels also show warnings of potential hazards using hazard symbols. It’s important to know and understand what each hazard symbol means, as being informed of potential hazards can prevent an injury or even save a life. Don’t cover up or remove labels from your household chemical products. It’s an accident waiting to happen that could easily be prevented.

All household products should be used with care, especially if there are children around. You never know what little ones will grab or get their hands on. It’s also a good idea to check that child-resistant closures are in good working order, but remember that child-resistant does not mean child-proof. Teach your kids that these products are dangerous and off limits. Close the cap on containers all the way even if you set them down for just a moment.

Always remember that the safest place to store household chemicals is to keep them locked away, where children cannot see or reach them. If you don’t need a product anymore, make sure you dispose of the leftovers safely, and never pour contents down the drain unless directed.

When to call for help

If someone has been in contact with a household chemical product and you think they may have been harmed, call a poison control centre or your health provider right away. Have the product handy when you speak with someone or when you go for help.

To report an incident, contact the manufacturer or retailer. You are also encouraged to contact Health Canada.

More tips on poison prevention can be found online at Canada.ca.