First Aid for Poisonings

• If the person is unconscious, having a seizure, or having trouble breathing or swallowing, call 911 immediately

For Swallowed Poisons

• Rinse your mouth with water or wipe out the mouth of a child with a wet cloth
• Do not make yourself or anyone else throw up (vomit)
• Call 1-800-565-8161 (NS, PEI) for further instructions

For Breathed In Poisons

• Take yourself or the person involved to fresh air immediately. Do not put yourself in danger by breathing in poisonous fumes
• Call 1-800-565-8161 (NS, PEI)  for further instructions

For Poisons in the Eye

• Rinse eyes with lukewarm running water for 15-20 minutes
• Call 1-800-565-8161 (NS, PEI) for further instructions

For Poisons on the Skin

• Remove any clothing and jewellery that the poison has touched
• Rinse skin with lukewarm running water for 15-20 minutes
• Call 1-800-565-8161 (NS, PEI) for further instructions

For Bites and Stings

• Wash the bite/sting with soap and water
• Remove any stingers by running the edge of a credit card over the area
• Call 1-800-565-8161 (NS, PEI)  for further instructions

Top 10 Poison Prevention Tips

• Keep potentially harmful items such as cleaning supplies and medications out of reach of children. It is best to store them in high and/or locked cupboards.
• Keep products in their original, labeled containers. The information on the label is very helpful if you have to call the Poison Centre about a poisoning.
• Cannabis edibles and liquids contain high amounts of THC and can be dangerous to small children. It is recommended that these products are stored in a locked container or a locked cupboard.  Children can have significant effects from cannabis edibles such as drowsiness, coma, agitation, and difficulty breathing.
• Never refer to medicine as candy. Medications often look like candy and children may be tempted to help themselves.
• Toddlers are curious and like to explore their world. Be aware of what is in your purse, pockets, medication dosettes, and drawers that may be harmful to a child.
• Never take medications in the dark – turn the light on and put your glasses on to prevent medication errors.
• Read product labels before use and wear proper protective gear (i.e. gloves, mask, goggles) as directed.
• Do not mix cleaners – this can produce poisonous gases that may be harmful when you breathe them in.
• Never take other people’s medications. Medications that are appropriate for one person can be potentially harmful to another person.
• Be aware of the environment around you. Other homes and environments that you visit may not be “poison-proof” for your child. Supervision is the main key to preventing poisonings in children. Remember there is no such thing as child proof, children can open “child resistant” containers with time.

If you think someone may have been exposed to a poison, please call the Atlantic Canada Poison Centre at 1-800-565-8161 (NS, PEI) or 1-844-POISONX (NL). Expert health care professionals are available 24/7 to provide you with individualized treatment advice.