Steps to take when poisoning is suspected
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has this important information for you.
If you suspect that a child or adult has ingested poison, first, remain calm.
* Call 911 if the victim has collapsed. If the victim is not breathing, call 911, then give mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.
* If the victim is awake and alert, call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. It is open 24/7.
* Be prepared to give the victim's age and approximate weight.
* Describe the substance. Read from the container if available.
* Never make the victim vomit unless instructed to do so by Poison Control.
* Give your address and phone number. Stay on the phone for instructions from the emergency operator. The specialist may need to call you back.
Poison Prevention
Medicines: Turn on a light when you give or take medicines. Read medication directions. Keep medicines in their original bottles. Store in a safe place where they can't be reached by children or teenagers.
Household cleaners and chemicals: Keep chemicals, cleaners and beauty products in their original containers. Always read the label before using.
Never mix cleaning products together. Doing so could produce toxic gases. Wear clothing that covers the skin when you spray pesticides or other chemicals.
Open the windows and use a fan when using chemicals in the house.
Protecting young children:
Keep drugs and chemicals in childproof cabinets that children can't reach.
Don't take medicine in front of children, since they often try to copy adults. When giving children a medication, never call it "candy."
Caution guests not to leave drugs where children can find them. Don't leave your own next dose on the counter.
