Poison Emergency

Call the Poison Control Hotline | 1-800-222-1222

A poison is a substance that can harm your body if you touch, taste, breathe, or get it into your bloodstream. Poisoning is the number one leading cause of injury related deaths in the United States. 

What to do during a poison exposure

  • Remain calm.
  • For people with life-threatening symptoms like unconsciousness, uncontrollable shaking, or any difficulty breathing, call 911.
  • For non life-threatening symptoms, call the Poison Control Hotline at 1-800-222-1222.

Calling the Poison Hotline

It is always best to have every poison exposure, whether mild or severe, evaluated by the Poison Hotline experts. They can provide reassurance and peace of mind. The toll-free Poison Hotline is:

  • Fast: Our staff will answer your phone call immediately.
  • Free: There is no charge. You can call as many times as you need.
  • Expert: You will receive help from an actual person. Staff who answer the phone are pharmacists, nurses, doctors, and specialists in poison information.
  • Private: Your personal information is not shared with anyone. We ask you for your name and phone number so we can call back to make sure you are OK.