SEATTLE, April 30,
2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Washington Poison
Center (WAPC), Washington's
nonprofit service for free medical advice on poisoning and drug
overdoses, is pleased to announce the winner of its 18th
annual Poison Prevention Contest: Bella
Mata, an 8th grade student from Burien, Washington.
The WAPC's contest invited students in Kindergarten through
8th grade to submit short stories on household poisoning
scenarios, poison prevention strategies, and the WAPC's role in
supporting health and safety. Bella's submission "Citrus Lemonade"
tells the story of Benny, a five year old who mistakes citrus
window cleaning solution for lemonade. Benny's mother seeks
treatment advice from the WAPC. Bella ends the story by providing
simple strategies to prevent similar accidents: using Mr. Yuk
stickers and storing harmful products safely.
"In this year's contest, we encouraged students to go beyond
only identifying potential poison risks—we wanted contestants to
explore safety strategies that fit their daily routines and
environments," says Dr. Scott
Phillips, Executive and Medical Director of the WAPC. "Bella
excelled in this challenge with creativity and insight. She wrote
about a poisoning scenario that resonates with many children,
families, and caregivers, and clearly showed how simple, proactive
measures can help mitigate risks."
The WAPC transformed Bella's story into an animated video,
linked here. Bella received a bookstore gift card, and will
participate in a visit with her local legislators in the near
future.
Media contact: mryuk@wapc.org
About the WAPC: The Washington Poison Center is a 501(c)3
nonprofit mandated by Washington State to deliver poison and drug
exposure-related medical advice and education to community members,
first responders, and healthcare providers. WAPC provides medical
advice through a 24/7/365 free telephone line staffed by specially
trained pharmacists, nurses, and physician medical toxicologists.
WAPC also provides free programs to educate local communities on
poison safety, prevention, and harm reduction.
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SOURCE Washington Poison Center