A CAMPAIGN aimed at reducing the number of children poisoned in the home has been launched by health experts in East Lancashire.

Medics have warned of the vital need to dispose safely of potentially poisonous medicines and chemicals stored in houses.

The 'Medicine Safety' campaign is advising parents on the proper storage and disposal of medicines and dangerous household chemical products.

The effort is being co-ordinated by East Lancashire Health Authority, local GPs and pharmacists.

Brenda Fullard, Health of the Nation expert at East Lancashire Health Authority, said: "Through this joint effort we hope to reduce the incidence of accidents of poisoning involving poisons and medicines in the home."

The campaign team is keen to stress that bleach is just one of hundreds of poisonous household products hiding in the home.

Mrs Fullard added: "A quick check in most homes will find dozens of different medicines and chemicals which could cause illness or even death. "The effect of poisons on the body is extremely unpleasant and causes much physical pain, stress and worry."

The campaigners have already supplied patients with information on the correct disposal of unwanted medicines.

The effort was launched after the results of a survey by Lancashire Family Health Services Authority in 1994 were studied.

Figures from the Home Accident Surveillance System in 1992 also showed there were 2,465 cases of poisoning from inhalation or ingestion in the UK, with 2,131 involving children under five.

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