disaster 5th 1108_5th ed 2011 - Homeland Security and Emergency ...

What are YOU gonna do about…
POISONING
Please make sure you have the local Poison Control Center phone
number near a telephone since many poisonings can be cared for without
the help of ambulance personnel. The people who staff Poison Control
Centers (PCCs) have access to information on most poisonous substances
and can tell you what care to give to counteract the poison.
POISON CONTROL CENTER # 1-800-222-1222 (U.S. only)
If outside U.S., write in local Poison Control Centre phone # below:
______________________________________
POISON - ABSORBED THROUGH THE SKIN
Review TERRORISM (in Section 2) for information, signs & symptoms, and
treatment on several poisonous chemical and biological agents that could
be absorbed through skin.
Things to watch for…
Reddened skin or burns
Poison on skin, clothing or in the area
Bites or marks from insect or animal (see BITES &
STINGS)
Possible Allergic Reaction - Pain, discoloration or redness
at site, trouble breathing, signs of shock (pale,
cold, drowsy, weak or rapid pulse, etc.)
What to do…
• Be aware - make sure it’s safe, then ask what happened.
• Move victim to safety (away from poison), if necessary.
• Find the container (if any) or name of the poison and call
local Poison Control Center or an ambulance.
• Remove clothing that may have poison on it - don’t pull
over head - cut it off. (Seal clothing in a bag then seal that
bag in a bag - ask officials how to dispose of it later.)
• Flush skin with running water for 10 minutes.
• Wash area gently with soap and water. (Note: some chemical
agents don’t suggest using soap so may want to ask.)
• Monitor breathing and watch for any allergic reactions.
200 www.itsadisaster.net or call 1-888-999-4325