Poisons, chemicals and electricity.

In a fictional household, an open cleaning product lies beside a person. A second picture shows a damaged cable.

Poisoning: information rather than home remedies

Do not endanger yourself with gas, vapours or unknown substances. Call 112 for severe symptoms, breathing problems or impaired consciousness. Product name, time, suspected amount and route of exposure help advisers. Do not induce vomiting, routinely give milk or attempt neutralisation yourself. For suspected poisoning that is not life-threatening, a poison information centre can guide further action.

Key point: Keep substance information without smelling or tasting it.

Chemical burns: stop further contact

Protect yourself from the chemical. Carefully remove contaminated clothing; immediately rinse affected skin or eyes with plenty of water, provided the product information gives no special instruction and this is safe. For splashes in an eye, protect the uninjured eye and let water drain away from it. Do not rub or mix chemicals; call 112 for severe exposure.

Key point: Do not “neutralise” an acid with an alkali or other substances against each other.

Disconnect electricity safely first

Do not touch the person while they could still be part of an electrical circuit. At home, disconnect the plug or switch off the fuse only from a safe position; keep your distance if water is present or the situation is unclear. With high voltage, professionals secure the area. Serious damage can exist after an electrical accident even without a large external wound. Call 112 for acute symptoms and monitor the condition.

Key point: A small external mark does not rule out internal damage.

Decide and check for yourself.

Five questions: Poisons, chemicals and electricity.

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