Poisoning Response

Initial management of suspected poisoning or overdose

Step by Step

Call emergency services if the person is unresponsive, having difficulty breathing, having a seizure, or seriously unwell; otherwise contact your local poison control center or health advice line immediately. Identify the substance, amount, and time if possible and keep the container or plant sample. Do NOT make the person vomit. Do not give anything to eat or drink unless a professional advises it. If they are unresponsive but breathing, use the recovery position; if not breathing normally, start CPR, avoiding mouth contact with any poison on the lips. For chemicals on the skin, remove contaminated clothing and rinse with running water; for eyes, rinse with clean running water and seek help. For fumes, get to fresh air only if it is safe for you.