The University of Arizona Health Sciences Center and The Arizona Poison and Drug Information Center offer the following information to help keep your holidays healthy and happy. If you have the slightest suspicion that a poisoning has occurred, call the Poison and Drug Center right away at 1-800-222-1222, azpoison.com. The center is open 24 hours, seven days a week. If signs of grogginess, difficulty in breathing, or unconsciousness have occurred, call 911 immediately.

• To ensure immediate treatment of accidental poisonings this holiday season, make sure you have Syrup of Ipecac in the house, especially if small children are present. If you are traveling, take a bottle with you. The syrup is used to induce vomiting in some poisoning situations; however, it should never be used without calling the Poison Center first.
• Mistletoe may be a great enticement for a kiss during the holidays, but its berries can be dangerous if they touch the lips. If your child or pet swallows several mistletoe berries, the result can be very serious. They are likely to experience nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhea. In worse cases, the mistletoe berries can cause hypertension or convulsions. The same is true of holly berries.
• Pyracantha is a good substitute for berried decorations and is non-toxic.
• Contrary to popular belief, poinsettias are not toxic but can cause an upset stomach if several leaves are eaten.