First Aid
Different people react to different drugs in different ways. There is no way of knowing exactly what is in a drug before you take it. This means that there is always a risk when taking any drug. Mixing different types of drugs and mixing drugs with alcohol can also increase the risks. If things go wrong with drugs or alcohol, it’s important to know what to do in an emergency.
If you are with someone who has taken a drug and things go wrong, it’s natural to feel scared, and maybe even responsible. It’s important to try not to panic. Stay calm and try to remember that the person’s health and safety are the most important things.
Cannabis, Cocaine/Crack, Ecstasy, LSD, Magic Mushrooms and Speed can make people tense and panicky.
If this happens you should
- Calm them down and tell them that the way they feel will soon pass.
- Tell them to breathe deeply and slowly.
- Try and get them to sit somewhere quiet without any bright lights.
- Heroin, ketamine, tranquilisers and solvents can make people feel very sleepy.
If this happens
- Try and keep them awake by talking to them slowly and quietly so that you don’t panic or startle them.
- Do not give them coffee or alcohol.
- With any drug, including alcohol, if a person is unconscious you should put them into the recovery position. You can do this by putting the back of the hand furthest away from you against the cheek nearest you, lift the furthest knee from you so that the foot slides up this will give you a lever to then roll the person to towards you. You then need to extend the top leg and arm out to stop them rolling back. Call 999 at the earliest opportunity.
Related Links:
- How To Keep Safe
- Drug & Alcohol Facts
- Drugs & The Law
- Drug & Alcohol Service Contact Information
- B:DAT Contact Information
