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Chemical burn or reaction

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment
• Prevention

Alternative Names:

Burn from chemicals

Prevention:

• Many household products are made of toxic chemicals. It is important to read and follow label instructions, including any precautions.
• Avoid, prolonged (even low-level) exposure to chemicals.
• Buy potentially poisonous substance in safety containers, and buy only as much as needed.
• Never store household products in food or drink containers. Leave them in their original containers with the labels intact.
• Avoid using potentially toxic substances in the kitchen or around food.
• Store chemicals safely immediately after use.
• Avoid mixing different products that contain toxic chemicals such as ammonia and bleach. The mixing can give off hazardous fumes.
• Use paints, petroleum products, ammonia, bleach, and other products that give off fumes only in a well ventilated area.
• All chemicals should be stored out of the reach of young children--preferably in a locked cabinet.

• Review Date: 1/17/2007
• Reviewed By: Eric Perez, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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