5 Ways to Create a Safe and Beautiful Spring

Spring is slowly making its' way to southeast Wyoming and it's time to get ready for warmer and much more pleasant weather. The Nebraska Regional Poison Center has released five areas in which many Wyomingites put themselves in danger while going through their springtime routine.

Spring Cleaning: Many poisonings occur while adults are using cleaning products because of the fumes they breath in.  For example, when bleach is mixed with an acid or ammonia - chlorine or chloramine gas is produced and breathing it in can lead to coughing, shortness of breath and damage to the lungs.  Other household cleaning chemicals can cause burns to the skin, eyes and mouth when not used properly.  So as you do your spring cleaning, remember to always read labels carefully, never mix bleach with any other chemicals and keep products up and out of the reach of children.

Medicine Cabinets: Spring is a great time to go through your medicine cabinets and dispose of medications which are unused or expired. On Saturday, April 30th the Laramie Police Department is hosting a free and anonymous Drug Take Back Day at Express Pharmacy from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. as part of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency's nationwide event. 70% of young people get prescriptions from friends or family members so this is a great way to ensure your family's safety.

Lawn Chemicals: After a long winter, people in Wyoming are anxious to get out and tend to their yard, trees and plants.  Do your best to choose only the chemicals which will treat your specific problem and only purchase as much as you will need.  Lawn care chemicals that are intended for homeowner use are safe as long as the label directions are followed carefully and are stored up and out of reach of children and pets. The Albany County Extension Office is a great place to get expert advice on whether your lawn requires any chemical application at all. Visit their website or give them a call at (307) 721-2571.

Plants: It is important to know the names of the plants in your home and yard. Philodendrons, Foxglove, Lily-of-the-valley and Azaleas are all beautiful plants which can also be poisonous. If you aren't sure whether the plant you are purchasing is toxic, call the poison center at (800) 222-1222 to find out. The poison center has plant lists available and their website has photos of plants to help you sort it all out.

Automotive: Accidents from siphoning gasoline from snow blowers to lawn mowers are calls the poison center receives every spring. When gasoline is swallowed it will cause stomach discomfort, but when it accidentally gets into the lungs it can be deadly. Wheel cleaners can cause serious burns and antifreeze is one of the most dangerous chemicals in the house. When using these products keep them up and out of reach of children and pets, follow the instructions carefully and never leave these products unattended.