AUTOMOTIVE PRODUCTS
POISON PREVENTION TIPS
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POISON HAZARDS
• ALWAYS use automotive products as directed on the label.
• ALWAYS make sure that tops on automotive products are screwed on tight.
• ALWAYS clean up leaks and spills that can frequently occur.
• ALWAYS put automotive products away when not in use.
• ALWAYS store automotive products in their original container.
• ALWAYS store automotive products in a locked area that children and pets cannot reach.
Many products like gasoline, motor oils and other automotive fluids are classified as
hydrocarbons. Some usually do not cause serious toxicity if ingested, unless they are
aspirated into the lungs. Other fluids, however, can cause serious problems if ingested or
inhaled and need prompt treatment.
• NEVER let children and pets play in areas where automotive products are in use.
• NEVER leave automotive products open when not in use.
• NEVER put automotive products in empty food containers.
• NEVER store automotive products where small children could reach the containers.
• NEVER run the engine in an enclosed area.
Keeping your car or truck in good working order is essential, and if this is not done leaks
can occur that could be hazardous to humans and pets.
But changing out the different fluids that make the
engine run effectively can be a messy job. Sometimes
there are spills when fluids are drained and replaced.
Make sure that leaks and spills are cleaned up so that
young children and pets are not exposed to these
products. Some can be FATAL if ingested.
For example, it only takes a small amount of Antifreeze
to cause death. Antifreeze has a sweet smell and taste
and is often attractive to pets. TAKE CAUTION!
Different automotive spills often
leave interesting patterns that
can attract small children.
Make sure that children do not
play in areas where this can
occur and clean spills up when
they happen.
Never pour automotive products into empty
food containers or leave these products out
where they can be accessed by children and
pets. Exposures to these products are
common calls to Poison Centers.
Automotive products used in cleaning and polishing cars and trucks
also can be a problem. Some of these agents are strong and if they
come in contact with the skin can cause significant problems.
Some of the tire cleaners fall into this category as they can contain
hydrofluoirc acid. Always wear gloves when working with these
products.
Remember...
When working on your car or truck, do not let the engine run in an enclosed space.
Exhaust fumes contain Carbon Monoxide that can be DEADLY.
If someone has been exposed to automotive products
through ingestion, inhalation, or splashed on skin or in eyes,
don’t wait for symptoms to occur.
Call the Poison Center
1-800-222-1222
The Alabama Poison Center I 2503 Phoenix Drive I Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 I FAX 205-345-7189
