When to call 911
Call 911 if a person stops breathing, collapses, or has a seizure.
These are signs of an emergency in which the victim needs emergency medical help immediately.
When to call the MA & RI Poison Center:
- If someone may have been poisoned and the person has NOT stopped breathing, collapsed, or had a seizure (if the victim DOES stop breathing, collapses, or has a seizure, call 911 right away)
- If you’re concerned about a possible poisoning
- To ask a poison prevention question
- To ask for poison prevention materials
If you match any of the criteria above, please call Poison Helpline 1-(800) 222-1222 right away
Important Reminders for Calling the MA & RI Poison Center
Do not wait for the victim to look or feel sick
Do not treat the person yourself (especially, DO NOT treat with ipecac syrup, milk, or try and make the person throw up)
Be ready to provide information on the victim and the possible poisoning. Remain on the phone and follow instructions from the emergency operator.