The National Poison Control Hotline and How to Use It

Poison Centers in the United States managed more than 2.3 million poison exposures in 2002, and more than half of these exposures were children under the age of six. The American Association of Poison Control Centers (AAPCC) provides a national poison control hotline, which offers the best initial line of defense for any poison emergency.

Calls to the hotline will be automatically connected to the local poison control center where specially trained nurses, pharmacists and physicians will provide immediate emergency help to callers. If necessary, the poison center will call an ambulance and will provide advice to the EMT’s when they arrive.

Callers may also call the hotline any time for advice about preventing poisoning. Experts are available to answer questions about poisonous plants, poison prevention advice, and how to use pesticides safely.

The Home Safety Council recommends memorizing the national hotline number -- (800) 222-1222 -- and posting the number with other local emergency phone numbers next to every phone.