Text and Online Chat Services Available

Photo of a baby laying down with a woman's hands touching their chest with one hand and typing on a laptop keyboard with the other

In celebration of 2025 National Poison Prevention Week (March 16-22), Washington Poison Center launched new text and online chat features. These enhancements increase the public’s access to our specially trained pharmacists and nurses through text messaging and a web-based chat platform, in addition to the traditional phone service.

“Poisoning can happen to anyone, and we know that people increasingly prefer texting and online chat for quick access to information,” says Jimmy Leonard, PharmD, DABAT, Chief Clinical Officer of WAPC. “By introducing these new options, we are making poison help more accessible and easier for everyone, especially during emergencies.”

Poisoning can happen to anyone, and we know that people increasingly prefer texting and online chat for quick access to information.

The text and chat services operate alongside the free telephone helpline, ensuring that individuals can reach WAPC in whatever way is most convenient for them. Whether it’s a question about a medication mistake, an exposure to a household chemical, or a drug overdose, trained poison specialists are available to provide immediate and free guidance. All interactions are handled by live poison specialists—there is no AI or automated system involved.

To access our services:

  • Text 206-526-2121 (available 11 pm-6 am; during off hours, people will be directed to call our helpline)
  • Go to our website homepage to begin a live chat (available 11 pm-6 am; during off hours, people will be directed to call our helpline
  • Call the Poison Helpline at 1-800-222-1222 (available 24/7)

All services are free and confidential. Text and chat are currently available in English only. For access to free interpretation in over 200 languages, call the Poison Helpline at 1-800-222-1222. We encourage everyone to save the Poison Helpline (1-800-222-1222) and WAPC’s text number (206-526-2121) in their contacts.

The implementation of the chat and text feature was generously supported by a grant from the Wockner Foundation.