USM: Poisoning Procedures

Poisoning Procedure- USM Police (911)

Keep Calm - Act Quickly

Calling for help :

1.  Call USM Police (911) first; then the Maine Poison Control Center (871-4720).
2.  Identify yourself, and give your relationship to the victim.
3.  Give your telephone number.
4.  Describe the victim by name, age, and sex.
5.  If possible have the container or poison in your hand and identify as best you can:
  • what was taken
  • when was it taken
  • how much was taken
  • how is the victim acting
6.  Be prepared to answer any additional questions asked.
7.  Follow advice given by the Poison Control Center.

Telltale signs :

1.  Unusual stains or odors on clothes or skin.
2.  Unusual odor on breath.
3.  Sudden changes in behavior, such as drowsiness, stomach pains, irritability, and signs of fear.
4.  Drug or chemical containers that are open and/or out of place.

The following procedures are identified for the following :

Poisonous Fumes of Gases - Immediately carry or drag the person to fresh air; be sure exposure to fumes is minimized.

Start artificial respiration if person is not breathing, and continue until the person resumes breathing or help arrives. Send someone for help.

Poisons on the Skin - Brush off all dry poisons, flood involved parts with plenty of water.  Then wash skin with bar soap and water, and rinse well.  Remove and discard all affected clothing.

Poisons in the Eye - Immediately flood the eye gently with large amounts of plain, lukewarm water (never hot) for at least 15 minutes.  Do not allow the victim to rub his eyes.

Swallowed Poisons - Look into the victim's mouth, and remove all tablets, powder, or any material that is present. Examine the mouth for cuts, burns, swelling, unusual coloring or odor. Rinse and wipe out mouth with a cloth. If the victim is awake and able to swallow, give one half glassful of water.

NOTE:   The USM Office of Environmental Safety & Health has the Material Safety Data Sheets on file for information pertaining to all chemicals used on that respective campus.

For further information or problems with this page, contact: Craig Hutchinson