Alcohol Emergencies

If You Suspect Alcohol Poisoning:

Wake the person up. Call his or her name; shake; pinch skin. If the person doesn't respond, get help! 

Turn and keep the person on his or her side to prevent choking on vomit. 

Check the person's skin. IF SKIN IS PALE, BLUISH, COLD, OR CLAMMY, GET HELP IMMEDIATELY. 

Check the person's breathing. If it is irregular or too slow (less than 8 breaths per minute or more than 10 seconds between breaths), get help! 

If you discover any one of the above symptoms, stay with the person and call 911. It is important to get help immediately. If in doubt, call the Student Health Center 24/7 at (540) 458-8401.

Caring for Someone Who Is Intoxicated:

Stay With The Person—They may be drunker than they appear and can become unconscious or fall out of bed.

Lie the Person On Their Side—Reduces risk of choking on vomit.

Give Water to Drink—If awake and not vomiting.

Only Time Will Sober Them Up—Do not give them coffee, ibuprofen, aspirin or put them in a cold shower.

The Student Health Center offers confidential care 24/7. If in doubt call 458-8401.

Remember:  Alcohol Overdose can be fatal.