First Aid for Poisoning

If the person is not breathing, is unconscious, or having seizures, call 911 right away.

Call the Maryland Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 after performing the following first aid.

Poison on the Skin:

Remove contaminated clothing and flood skin with water for 10 minutes. Then wash gently with soap and water and rinse.

Poison in the Eye:

Flood the eye with lukewarm (not hot) water poured from a large glass two or three inches from the eye or from the faucet or shower. Repeat this for 15 minutes. Have victim blink as much as possible while flooding the eye. Do not force the eyelid open.

Inhaled Poison:

Avoid breathing fumes and immediately get the victim to fresh air. Open doors and windows wide. If victim is not breathing, start artificial respiration.

Swallowed Poison:

Gently wipe out mouth and give a small amount of water. Do not make the person vomit by putting a finger in their throat or giving Syrup of Ipecac, egg whites, mustard, or any other home remedies. Syrup of Ipecac is a medicine that makes a person vomit. Its use is no longer recommended by the MPC or the American Academy of Pediatrics.