Should activated charcoal be given to one who has swallowed a poison?
Yes. This is a good substance to have in the household as it tends to bind (deactivate) the poison.

How can one tell whether a strong acid or alkali has been swallowed?
In many cases there will be obvious burns around the lips or in the mouth.

How can one tell whether a petroleum product has been swallowed?
Often one will be able to smell Petrol, Diesel, Kerosene, or oil on the victim’s breath.

What poisons are most apt to interfere with breathing?
One of the most common causes of depressed breathing is an overdose of barbiturates or other sleeping pills. Also morphine and heroin cause deep depression of respirations when taken in large doses.

Gas Poisoning
What is the first–aid treatment for gas poisoning?
Shut off the gas and open the windows.
Get the patient out into the open where can breathe fresh air.
Mouth–to–mouth breathing should be applied if the victim is not breathing on his own.
Loosen any tight collars or tight clothing.
Call for an emergency squad so that the pure oxygen can be administered.

For how long a period should artificial respiration be continued if the victim is not breathing?
For as long as there is the slightest evidence of a pulse or heartbeat. Feel for the pulse in the neck.

Do people who recover from gas poisoning require careful observation?
Yes. There may be serious mental disturbance as a consequence of the effect of the gas poisoning upon the brain cells.