Brake Fluid

1. Wipe or rinse out mouth.
2. Give a serving size of water to drink.
3. Rinse any exposed skin with lukewarm water.
4. It is important to call 1-800-222-1222 for additional instructions based on the exact brake fluid involved in the exposure.

If someone gets brake fluid in the eye, there can be immediate burning and stinging, which requires prompt first aid to avoid an eye injury.

1. Start rinsing eye(s) with lukewarm water.
2. Call the Missouri Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 for further recommendations.

Brake fluid is a type of hydraulic fluid made of various solvent mixtures that people use to enhance brake performance in motor vehicles. The fluid has a fishy but slightly sweet odor. Its color is usually clear or yellow, which turns brown over time from use. There are many different solvents that people find in brake fluids; however, the most common one people find is di-ethylene glycol. If there has been an exposure to the substance and you call the poison center, have the bottle with you. The label on the bottle has important information that will help identify the type of solvent in the fluid. This information helps our poison experts deliver the most accurate recommendations.

How Poisonous is Brake Fluid?

Most calls to the poison center involve accidental taste amounts of brake fluid. This often happens when you transfer the substance from its original container into a beverage container such as a water bottle or a sippy cup (yes, this has happened). Usually, as soon as the person tastes the liquid, they recognize this is not the beverage they intended to drink and start spitting it out immediately. Due to the slightly sweet taste, a child may drink more than they should. If you or someone you know ingests brake fluid, DO NOT induce vomiting, and call the poison center immediately. Symptoms should be minimal with these taste exposures. Mouth and stomach irritation along with nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea can develop. Sometimes minor drowsiness and dizziness will occur.

More worrisome are cases when someone deliberately ingests large amounts with the intention of self-harm. Initial symptoms from large exposures include becoming very drowsy, followed by changes to blood chemistry and injury to the lungs, kidneys, and liver. Anyone caring for someone who intentionally ingests brake fluid should call the poison center for first-aid instructions. DO NOT induce vomiting. A referral to the closest emergency department will be made after first-aid is administered. The poison center specialist will speak to the doctors and nurses in the emergency department so that the correct lab work and therapies are done.

Proper storage of brake fluid is essential. Store it in its original container in a cool, well-ventilated area. Along with all automotive products, you should store the fluid up high, out of reach, and sight of children to prevent accidental poisonings. Don’t forget about pets; clean up any spills quickly, as the directions indicate. Keep brake fluid bottles away from animals at all times.

What to Do if You Swallowed Brake Fluid?

If you find someone has swallowed some brake fluid, do not panic. Wipe out the mouth with a soft, wet cloth and give them some water to drink. Call the Missouri Poison Center right away at 1-800-222-1222. The poison center is open all day, every day, for poisoning emergencies and questions.

**Note: Don’t forget, every case is different. To make sure you are getting the best information for your individual situation, click below to call or chat. It is fast, free, and confidential.