Poisons

Poisons are substances that can be swallowed, injected, absorbed through the skin or inhaled.

Poisoning may be accidental or deliberate (suicide).

If possible try to find out what poison or medicinal substance has been taken, how much has been taken and when it was taken.

If there is no life threatening emergency – call the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26.

If the situation has become life threatening, for example, the casualty is unconscious or not breathing, then:

• Observe DRABCD 
• Call for medical assistance 
• Monitor airway, breathing, circulation 

What should you do?

We all respond to emergencies in different ways.

Whether trained or untrained, some of us are afraid we will do the wrong thing and make the situation worse.

If you are unsure about what to do, call for an ambulance.

The worst thing to do is to do nothing.