18th century infamous rivals, Kitty Fisher and Maria Gunninng, died the same way by lead poisoning by excessive use of make-up. At the time, make-up contained Lead, a poisonous substance, that would make a person look pale. A sign of beauty at the time.
Lighthouse keepers constantly went nuts due to mercury…
Lighthouse keepers constantly went nuts due to mercury poisoning from the fresnel lens lamps they used combined with isolation. It was a major issue for the USCG until a doctor took a look at the huge pool of mercury sitting under the lens.
Hat making in the past involved prolonged exposure to mercury…
Hat making in the past involved prolonged exposure to mercury vapors, causing poisoning which symptoms are sensory impairment (vision, hearing, speech), and a lack of coordination. this inspired terms like “Mad as a hatter” and of course, the mad hatter of Alice in wonderland.
If you or your pet have accidentally consumed antifreeze…
If you or your pet have accidentally consumed antifreeze, vodka can be used as an antidote.