Emergencies

Drugs affect everyone differently and sometimes people can suffer a bad reaction. Do not worry about the legal implications, just make sure you get help from nearby people (such as bar staff, security guards and bouncers) or if necessary dial 999. Here’s how to help.

If someone becomes drowsy

• Call an ambulance immediately.
• Place them in the recovery position (see recovery position section).
• Keep them awake and keep them talking but do not shake them.
• Never give them coffee as this can make the drug work faster.

If someone becomes tense, shows fear or panic

• Take them to a quiet place away from noise and crowds.
• Calm them down and tell them everything is okay and their feelings of fear will pass.
• Encourage them to breathe deeply and relax. If their breathing becomes erratic get help immediately.

If someone gets too hot and dehydrates

• Take them to a cooler area, possibly outside, away from crowds and noise.
• Remove any extra clothing.
• Get them to sip water or juice but not alcohol. Do not give them too much water as this can be dangerous.

If someone becomes unconscious

• Call for help and an ambulance immediately but do not leave them on their own.
• Check for breathing.
• If they are still breathing, make sure their airway is clear and place them in the recovery position (see recovery position section).
• Loosen any tight clothing and jewellery from their neck.
• Try to keep them warm but not too hot.
• Do not give them any fluids if they are slipping in and out of consciousness as choking can easily happen.

If someone is overdosing or convulsing

• Call for an ambulance immediately.
• Make sure mouth and airway are clear and no foreign bodies/dentures/vomit are blocking the airway.
• Place in the recovery position with something like a jacket or pillow under the head.
• Do not leave the person alone.
• Clear the surrounding area of dangerous objects.

The Recovery Position

If someone has collapsed and is still breathing:

• Keep airway open by tilting the head and lifting chin
• Check that they have not swallowed their tongue and that there are no dentures/foreign bodies/vomit in the mouth.  If necessary, scoop out with your index finger
• With the casualty lying on his/her back kneel at the side and raise the patient's arm (A)
• Lift the patient's furthest knee and bring furthest hand to the near side of the face (B)
• Using the patient’s knee as a lever pull him/her on to your knees (C)
• Adjust the patient’s position as shown (D)
• If the casualty has head, neck or spinal injuries do not put them into the recovery position as this may make the injury worse. If you are in any doubt, and the casualty is in no further danger by being left in their original position, do not move the patient. Wait for the paramedics to arrive.