Poisoning

Poisoning most commonly occurs from chemicals taken by mouth. Follow the steps:

1. Try to determine WHAT has been swallowed HOW MUCH has been taken and HOW LONG since it was taken;

2. Contact the Poison Information Centre and follow their advice on treatment;

3. If they cannot be reached and if the casualty is conscious, dilute the poison by giving several glasses of water to drink;

4. If the poison is not a corrosive (it did not burn the lips and mouth) or is not a petroleum product (fuel, oil, gasoline, furniture oil, etc.) hold the person's head low and try to make him vomit to remove as much poison as posible;

5. Take the casualty to medical aid urgently.

ACCIDENTAL POISONING

If an accidental poisoning occurs or is suspected, think clearly and take the following steps:

1. Identify the suspected poison and the amount taken.

2. Immediately contact your Poison Information Centre (Close Hospital Emergency Department) or your family physician.

3. If necessary, quickly take the person to the nearest hospital department. This does not necessarily mean you need an ambulance. If there is a family car or immediate source of door-to-door transportation available, this will often be faster.

4. Bring the package or container of suspected poison with you.

First Aid - Learn the Basics

Keep in mind that sometimes seconds count in an emergency. When a victim suffers a life-threatening medical situation, first aid is an important first step of emergency care and sometimes life-saving help to an injured or unwell victim before the arrival of professional medical assistance.

Our pages are prepared to help you understand different emergency situations and learn essential first aid to respond to emergencies at home, at work, on the road or anywhere else where instant help is needed and professional help is not ready available. We'd recommend signing up for a first aid course in your local area so you can learn how to prevent and respond to different life's emergencies. First aid course will also provide you with some hands-on practice of lifesaving first aid techniques and an opportunity to learn basic lifesaving skills.