Georgia Doctor On Poison Control Crusade

Dr. Robert Geller says when it comes to poison prevention, quick action can save a life.

Geller, a professor of pediatrics at Emory University’s School of Medicine, and director of the Georgia Poison Center, said about 150,000 Georgians are poisoned each year.

"Poisonings have been on the rise in recent years, and the message we want to stress every day, not just during this national awareness week, is act fast," said Dr. Geller.

As part of National Poison Prevention Week, which runs March 15-21, Geller is setting aside time to highlight the dangers of poisonings and how to prevent them.

Geller said poisonings continue to be one of the leading causes of injuries and deaths in the United States. A poison is anything that causes sickness or death if you eat it, breathe it, or get it in your eyes or on your skin.

"If you think someone has been poisoned, call the Georgia Poison Center immediately. 1-800-222-1222 is the number for the Georgia Poison Center and it should be beside every phone in every house in Georgia. It's that important," Geller said.