If the person is conscious, encourage them to make their way out of the contaminated area, if at all possible.

If you think someone has inhaled poisonous fumes, assess the situation first and do not put yourself in danger.

If the person is not breathing or their heart has stopped, begin CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) if you know how to. Do not give them anything to eat or drink. Wipe any vomit away from their mouth and keep their head pointing down, to allow any vomit to escape without them breathing it in or swallowing it. While you're waiting for medical help to arrive, lie the person on their side with a cushion behind their back and their upper leg pulled slightly forward, so they do not fall on their face or roll backwards. Do not put your hand into their mouth and do not try to make them sick. If you think someone has swallowed poison and they appear to be unconscious, try to wake them and encourage them to spit out anything left in their mouth. If a harmful substance has splashed onto their skin or clothes, remove any contaminated items and wash the affected area thoroughly with warm or cool water. Be careful not to contaminate yourself in the process. If they've been poisoned by swallowing something, try to get them to spit out anything that is remaining in their mouth.

If you think someone has been severely poisoned and they're still conscious, ask them to sit still and stay with them while you wait for medical help to arrive.

uncontrollable restlessness or agitationĬall NHS 111 for advice if a person who's been poisoned does not appear to be seriously ill.

sudden, noticeable heartbeats (palpitations).

Symptoms associated with serious poisoning include: If they're showing signs of being seriously ill, dial 999 to request an ambulance or take them to your local A&E department.

If someone has been poisoned, do not try to treat them yourself – seek medical help immediately.

Poison antidote