DGMC Pharmacy asks for your Rx back

Published March 10, 2009
60th Diagnostics and Therapeutics Squadron

TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Have you ever reached for the apple juice only to discover you picked up the Pine Sol instead? Imagine what might happen if you were too young to read the label or know the difference.

Since 1961, the third week in March has been designated as National Poison Prevention Week. "The week is an opportunity to highlight the dangers of poisoning and to promote community involvement in poisoning prevention on a local and national level," said Col. Robert Lucania, commander of the 60th Diagnostics and Therapeutics Squadron. "Each year, more than two million poisoning exposures are reported to the 65 Poison Centers across the country."

In support of National Poison Prevention Week March 15 to 21 the David Grant USAF Medical Center's pharmacies will be hosting displays outside the DGMC mini-BX Shoppette and the BX Mini Mall.

"Pharmacy staff will also present a short movie and educational materials to children at the Child Development and Youth Centers, and at local elementary schools," explained Col. Jeffrey Snyder, Air Mobility Command pharmacy consultant and 60th Pharmacy Flight commander at DGMC. "We encourage Team Travis members and their families to actively participate in our planned activities and get some free and useful information in the process."

According to Colonel Snyder, the American Association of Poison Control Centers can be reached at 1-800-222-1222. Dialing this number will connect you to your local Poison Center, which is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. "Poison Centers are staffed by nurses, pharmacists and physicians to ensure you can receive help with poisoning emergencies or obtain information on ways to keep your family safe," said Colonel Snyder.