By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
In observance of National Poison Prevention Week, my Administration is confronting the alarming rise in overdose deaths caused by accidental poisoning across our nation. Through enhanced community engagement, reinforced safety protocols, and decisive measures, we are ushering in a new chapter of American strength, safety, and well-being.
One of the most pressing challenges we face is the surge of fentanyl, which is being illegally trafficked into our country—a crisis that has spiraled out of control, particularly in recent years. Fentanyl and other perilous drugs have infiltrated our neighborhoods, endangering the lives of our children, siblings, parents, friends, and neighbors. It is now the leading cause of death among Americans aged 18 to 45, with overdose rates among teenagers alarmingly on the rise—snatching away countless lives, futures, and aspirations.
This relentless devastation cannot be allowed to persist. Therefore, upon resuming my duties, I took immediate action by designating drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations, recognizing them as a national security concern. I’ve also implemented tariffs on China, Mexico, and Canada, clearly signaling that those who perpetuate this crisis will be held accountable. The United States Customs and Border Protection, alongside U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, are at the forefront of this battle, having seized over 1,600 pounds of fentanyl within my first month back in office. I remain committed to safeguarding children and families, combating addiction, and keeping deadly substances out of our communities.
Every day, American households grapple with the tragic consequences of preventable poisoning, whether it arises from household chemicals, misuse of medications, or the insidious threat posed by opioids like fentanyl. This week, my Administration urges all Americans to educate themselves about the dangers of poisoning and take proactive steps to protect their families. The Poison Help Line, 800-222-1222, is available 24/7, offering free, confidential assistance from medical professionals. We will tirelessly advocate for a future that prioritizes the safety and well-being of its citizens, ensuring that the American people can lead happy, healthy, and liberated lives.
To foster greater awareness about unintentional poisonings and encourage preventive actions, Congress, on September 26, 1961, approved a resolution (75 Stat. 681) requesting the President to proclaim the third week of March each year as “National Poison Prevention Week.”
NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim March 16, 2025, through March 22, 2025, to be National Poison Prevention Week. I call upon all Americans to observe this week by taking meaningful actions to protect their families from hazardous products, chemicals, medications, and drugs found in their homes, while also raising awareness about these dangers to prevent accidental injuries and fatalities.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this eighteenth day of March, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.
DONALD J. TRUMP
