Poisoning: Learn first aid
Signs and symptoms of poisoning
Someone who has taken something harmful may look paler than usual, not be aware of their surroundings or seem disorientated. The person may vomit and have stomach pain. They may have evidence of the harmful substance around their mouth, or smell of it. There may be empty containers nearby: for example, containers for medication, alcohol or cleaning products.
First aid steps for someone who has swallowed something harmful
1. If the person is responsive, find out what they have taken, when they took it and how much they took.
The emergency services will want to know this information.
2. Call 999.
The substance could be extremely harmful and the person may need urgent medical attention.
3. Keep checking on them as you wait for help to come.
Do not make the person sick. By making them sick, you can cause further damage to their throat or block their airway.
Watch Mel's story in this British Red Cross video to learn first aid for poisoning and harmful substances.
Frequently asked questions about first aid for someone who has swallowed something harmful
How can I tell if someone has swallowed something harmful?
The person may vomit and have stomach pain. They may have evidence of the harmful substance around their mouth, or smell of it. There may be empty containers nearby: for example, containers for medication, alcohol or cleaning products.
What should I do if I think the person seems fine but has swallowed something harmful?
Call 999 anyway, even if they seem to be showing no symptoms.
Can I give them something to drink?
No, don’t give them anything to drink.
The fluid will enter their stomach and break down the harmful substance. This may result in it being absorbed into their body more quickly.
Why shouldn’t I make the person sick?
Making them sick can cause more damage to the throat or block their airway.
If they have swallowed something corrosive, the liquid will burn the throat on the way back up, causing more pain and distress.
What should I do while I wait for the ambulance to arrive?
Get them to sit still, reassure them and listen to what they tell you.
What should I do if the person becomes unresponsive?
Find out:
- how to help an adult who is unresponsive and breathing
- how to help a baby who is unresponsive and breathing
- how to help a child who is unresponsive and breathing
- how to help an adult who is unresponsive and not breathing
- how to help a baby who is unresponsive and not breathing
- how to help a child who is unresponsive and not breathing.
For more information on how to help someone who has swallowed something poisonous, visit the NHS website. During life-threatening emergencies, call 999, or for non-emergency medical help, call 111.
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