Hey, are you ok? (poster)

Hey, are you ok?

Too many alcohol overdoses aren't addressed because the difference between being really drunk and an overdose can sometimes be hard to identify.

Alcohol poisoning

Know the signs: C.U.P.S.

  • Cold and sweaty skin
  • Unconscious
  • Puking
  • Slow/irregular breathing or heart rate

If your friend or someone around you is experiencing any of these symptoms, they may need immediate medical attention.
Remember: If you ask for help and you have other drugs on you, you can be protected by the Good Samaritan Law.

What to do

  1. Check in with the person by talking to them or gently shaking them.
  2. If they are not responsive, call for help (campus services, security, 911).
  3. Sit them down, or if they are unable to sit up, lay them on their side in the recovery position (Figure 1) to prevent choking.
  4. Do not leave them alone.
  5. Try to find out if they've taken other substances and how much.
Figure 1: Recovery position
Figure 1: Recovery position
Figure 1: Recovery position - Text description

A person putting someone into the recovery position. The features of the recovery position include:

  • lying down on left side
  • airway is kept clear with head supported by right hand
  • right knee bent to prevent rolling onto stomach

For more tips: How young adults can reduce risks related to alcohol use

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