March 15-21 is National Poison Prevention Week, so folks from the Washington Poison Center—along with Mr. Yuk—came to the State Capitol this morning.The goal of Poison Prevention Week is to reduce illnesses, injuries, and deaths due to poisonings; build safer communities; and reduce unnecessary health care costs for everyone.
Ivyanne Smith (12 years old) from Redmond designed the poster capturing this year's theme of the Washington State's Poison Prevention Week campaign, "Is It Time To Call Mr. Yuk?”
What is National Poison Prevention Week?
Public Law 87-319, signed on September 16, 1961, by President Kennedy, designates the third week in March as National Poison Prevention Week. Congress intended this event as a means for local communities to raise awareness of the dangers of unintentional poisonings and to take preventive measures.
“The bright green Mr. Yuk symbol is easily identified by children," said Rep. Scott White. "Parents should take care to secure all poisonous materials and put Mr. Yuk stickers on anything that a child might get into.”
Photo: Ivy Smith; Jim Williams, WAPC Executive Director; Mr. Yuk and Rep. Scott White, 46th Legislative District as they are interviewed by KING 5 News.
