Alcohol Poisoning Facts

 

When someone drinks too much alcohol their bodies natural defenses cause the person to "pass out". This is the body telling itself that you've had too much and won't allow you to drink anymore. The problem is when  people drink too much too quickly which can cause them to go into a coma. 

Symptoms of Alcohol Overdose:

Severe vomiting 

Not responding when spoken to

Not responding to efforts to be awoken (pinching, shaking, etc.)

Being unable to stand up

Slow breathing

Purplish skin colour

Cold, clammy skin

Fast pulse

What to do:

  1. Call 911

  2. Roll the person into recovery position to limit the possibility of choking. (Below)

To achieve this position you must follow these steps:

Raise the person's closest arm above their head to help with rolling them towards you.

Gently roll the person's entire body toward yourself but make sure to guard their head while you roll them.

Make sure the person's head is tilted to ensure an open airway and tuck their hand under their cheek.

Never leave the person alone. Stay with them until help arrives.

 Never assume that someone who has consumed a lot of alcohol will simply just sleep it off. Never leave someone alone that may have possibly overdosed with alcohol. If other drugs are involved, it is a greater of risk of fatal outcomes and 911 should be called immediately.