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February 9, 2012

Certified Poison Control Centers

The following information is from the American Association of Poison Control Centers (AAPCC).

The United States National Poison Hotline is 1-800-222-1222. When you call this number you will be automatically linked to the nearest poison center in the United States. Call this number 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to talk to a poison expert.

First Aid Tips provided by AAPCC.

Has the person collapsed or stopped breathing?

  • Call 911 or your local emergency number right away.

Swallowed the wrong medicine or too much medicine?

  • Call 1-800-222-1222

Inhaled poison?

  • Get to fresh air right away.
  • Call 1-800-222-1222

Poison on the skin?

  • Take off any clothing that the poison touched.
  • Rinse skin with running water for 15 to 20 minutes.
  • Call 1-800-222-1222

Poison in the eyes?

  • Rinse eyes with running water for 15 to 20 minutes.
  • Call 1-800-222-1222

We recommend that you print out a hard copy of this number and place it near your home/business phone(s) for easy access in a poison emergency.


Last Editorial Review: 7/9/2009




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Mercury introduction

Mercury is contained in some of the fish we eat, whether caught in local lakes and streams or bought in a grocery store. Mercury is also contained in some of the products we use, which may be found in your home, at the dentist, and at schools. This article provides links to information about sources of mercury exposure, potential health effects, fish that may contain mercury, consumer products that contain mercury, and ways to reduce your exposure to mercury.

General information about mercury and mercury exposure

Forms of mercury. Mercury is a naturally occurring element that is found in air, water and soil. It exists in several forms:

  • elemental or metallic mercury,
  • inorganic mercury compounds, and
  • organic mercury compounds.

Sources of mercury. Mercury is an element in the earth's crust. Humans cannot create or destroy mercury. Pu...

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