This month’s safety tip is again from the National Poison Control Center.
This time it is about the harm eye drops can cause if ingested. Eye drops to reduce eye redness, contain decongestants that work by reducing the swelling of blood vessels in the eye. The most common ingredient is tetrahydrozoline that works similarly to the blood pressure lowering medication clonidine. If swallowed it can cause low blood pressure, sleepiness and a dangerously low heart rate. In some cases, victims have had breathing difficulties when taken in large amounts. As with most poisonings, children under 5 years are the most at risk. Remember to keep all medications in a secure spot where they are out of reach of children, and if the worst does happen call 911 and the Poison control center for assistance. About a third of these ingestions required a healthcare facility intervention. Call before symptoms start in a known ingestion. The squad has magnets and stickers for the Poison center available for the asking. Poison Center number:1-800-222-1222

In Mid-August we will see the school buses back on our streets. Please use extra precautions during those pick-up and drop off times. Slow down. Some are riding for the first time and may not know all the rules yet. Be Patient!
The Squad has members already back in EMT class for the summer accelerated program and the end of the month will see some starting the regular class.
Thank you for your continued support of the Aquia Harbour Volunteer Rescue Squad.