Emergency Situations

Spotlight on drugs

 

Some people are only alive today because others around them knew their first aid. Others have died because people have panicked, not known what to do, or run off before getting help.

Make sure you know how to do basic first aid.

 

If people become tense and panicky

This generally occurs if people have taken hallucinogenic drugs like LSD and magic mushrooms. It can however also happen with amphetamines (speed), ecstasy and high doses of cannabis.

  • If you experience someone in this state:
  • Try and calm them down and reassure them that they will be ok
  • Talk quietly to them and explain that the panic they are feeling will begin to gradually go away
  • Try and keep them away from bright lights and loud noise

 

If people faint or lose consciousness

This happens mainly after taking drugs like alcohol, heroin and tranquillisers, but can also occur with gases, glues, aerosols and poppers. People who react badly, or overheat following amphetamine (speed) or ecstasy use can also lose consciousness. If this happens to someone you are with:

  • Put them in the recovery position
  • Loosen any tight clothes that may restrict their breathing
  • Put a blanket or coat over them to keep them warm, although be careful not to make them too hot
  • Check their breathing
  • Call an ambulance

 

If people overheat and dehydrate

This tends to happen when people have taken amphetamine (speed) or ecstasy. This is because these drugs raise body temperature and also then tend to make people exert themselves. Overheating and dehydration has been the main reason for ecstasy-related deaths.

The warning signs to look for are:

  • Cramps in the legs, arms and back
  • Failure to sweat, even when dancing
  • Headache, dizziness and vomiting
  • Sudden tiredness
  • Fainting
  • What to do if this happens:
    • Move the person to a cool area, outside if possible
    • Try and cool them - splashing them with cold water can help
    • Encourage the person to sip water, but no more than a pint an hour
    • Call an ambulance

 

If people are drowsy, but awake

After taking drugs like alcohol, heroin and tranquillisers, gases and glues, this state can occur.

If this happens:

  • Put the person in the recovery position
  • Try and stop them becoming unconscious, speaking to them can help
  • Do not put them to bed, they may become unconscious in their sleep
  • If they want a drink, only give them small sips of luke warm water. Never give them black coffee as this only makes the drug work faster
  • Get medical help

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