First Aid Basics Everyone Should Know
What to Do If Someone Is Poisoned
Poisoning emergencies can happen quickly and often involve everyday products found at home, work, or school. In Canada, medications, cleaning supplies, cannabis products, automotive fluids, and toxic gases are among the most common causes of accidental poisoning.
Knowing how to respond calmly and correctly can make a critical difference while waiting for professional medical help. Here are the essential first aid basics everyone should know.
Poison Emergency in Canada
If you suspect poisoning, contact Poison Control immediately at 1-844-POISON-X (1-844-764-7669)
Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Common Causes of Poisoning
Poisoning doesn’t always involve obvious chemicals. Some of the most common risks include:
- Prescription and over-the-counter medications
- Cannabis edibles, oils, and vapes
- Cleaning products and household chemicals
- Automotive fluids and solvents
- Carbon monoxide and other toxic gases
Children, seniors, and pets are especially vulnerable due to their size, underlying health conditions, or limited ability to recognize danger. Many substances that are harmless in small amounts to adults can be extremely dangerous to children and animals.
Signs of Poisoning
Symptoms can vary depending on the substance, but may include:
- Nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain
- Dizziness or confusion
- Trouble breathing
- Burns or redness around the mouth
- Drowsiness, seizures, or loss of consciousness
If you suspect poisoning, act immediately — even if symptoms seem mild at first
What to Do If Someone Is Poisoned
If you believe someone has been poisoned:
- Call for help immediately
Contact Poison Control or emergency services right away. Have the product container or name available if possible. - Do NOT induce vomiting
Forcing vomiting can cause further injury and is not recommended unless instructed by medical professionals. - Remove the source
If it’s safe to do so, move the person away from the substance and ensure the area is well ventilated. - Check breathing and responsiveness
If the person is unconscious or not breathing, call 911 immediately and begin CPR if trained. - Follow professional instructions
Always follow guidance from emergency responders or Poison Control — do not rely on home remedies.
Be prepared before an emergency happens.
Print our Poisoning Quick Action poster and display it in your workplace, lunchroom, classroom, or at home for fast reference. Access the printable PDF here.
What to Do If a Pet Is Poisoned
Pets can be exposed to toxins through foods such as chocolate or products containing xylitol, medications, plants, cleaning supplies, automotive fluids, or cannabis products.
If you suspect your pet has been poisoned:
- Remove access to the substance immediately
- Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a veterinarian
- Call the Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435
- Contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital right away
Symptoms in pets may include vomiting, drooling, tremors, weakness, seizures, difficulty breathing, or unusual behavior. Acting quickly can significantly improve outcomes.
Prevention Starts With Awareness
The most effective way to manage a poisoning emergency is prevention:
- Store medications and chemicals locked away and out of reach
- Keep products in original containers with clear labels
- Dispose of expired or unused medications safely
- Educate family members and coworkers about potential risks
Prepared environments reduce risk, especially in homes with children or animals.
Why First Aid and CPR Training Matters
First aid training prepares you to respond confidently during emergencies, including poisoning incidents, breathing emergencies, and cardiac arrest.
Understanding what to do and what not to do reduces panic, prevents further harm, and improves outcomes until professional help arrives.
Whether at home, at work, or in your community, being prepared saves time and can save lives.
Be prepared when emergencies happen.
Explore First Aid and CPR training and gain the skills and confidence to respond effectively in poisoning emergencies and other critical situations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if someone is poisoned in Canada?
If someone has been poisoned in Canada, call Poison Control at 1-844-764-7669 (1-844-POISON-X) immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by medical professionals. If the person is unconscious, having seizures, or not breathing, call 911 right away and begin CPR if trained.
Should I make someone vomit if they swallow poison?
No. Inducing vomiting is not recommended and can cause further injury. Only follow instructions provided by Poison Control or emergency responders.
What is the Poison Control number in Canada?
The national Poison Control number in Canada is 1-844-764-7669 (1-844-POISON-X). This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
What are the signs of poisoning?
Common symptoms of poisoning include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dizziness, confusion, difficulty breathing, burns around the mouth, seizures, and loss of consciousness. Symptoms may vary depending on the substance and type of exposure.
What should I do if my dog or pet is poisoned?
If you suspect your pet has been poisoned, remove access to the substance immediately and contact the Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435. You should also call your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital right away. Do not induce vomiting unless directed by a veterinary professional.
Can carbon monoxide poisoning happen at home?
Yes. Carbon monoxide poisoning can occur from faulty furnaces, fireplaces, generators, or vehicles running in enclosed spaces. Install carbon monoxide detectors in your home and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms such as headache, dizziness, or nausea occur.
