Quebec Poison Centre: What to Do After an Exposure
Respond after swallowing, inhaling or touching a product, medication, plant or unknown substance.
Do not improvise treatment
Do not induce vomiting or give food, milk, water, charcoal or a home “antidote” before receiving instructions. Move the person away from the source only when this can be done without exposing yourself.
Prepare the call
Keep the container, label, exact product name or a photo. Record the time, possible amount, route of exposure, approximate age, weight, symptoms, regular medication and first aid already provided. If several substances may be involved, report all of them rather than choosing one yourself.
Skin or eye exposure
Carefully remove contaminated clothing and follow the label when safe. Begin rinsing if the product instructions or emergency services require it, then continue for the duration given by the Poison Centre. Never mix products in an attempt to neutralize the substance.
After the call
Write down the instructions and monitor exactly the warning signs identified. If the condition changes, call again or use 911. Keep the product secured and do not discard it until told it is no longer needed for assessment.
First aid — Quebec Poison Centre (French)