What can you do if someone at a party goes too far?

If someone looks like they might not be okay, don’t ghost them… GET HELP! Your choice could save a life. Remember that the law protects both you and the person in danger.

CALL 911 (AVAILABLE 24/7)

The NYS 911 Good Samaritan Law empowers you to save a life by encouraging you to call 911 without fear of arrest, if someone is overdosing on drugs or alcohol and requires emergency medical care. Everyone in the situation is protected by law (regardless of age), even in cases of underage drinking or when there are drugs/paraphernalia present. Follow the link below for more info about how this law protects you.

CALL OR TEXT 845-485-9700 (AVAILABLE 24/7)

The Dutchess County Helpline is a free service available by call or text (24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year) to address any crisis related to behavioral health and/or substance use. They even have a Mobile Crisis team that can come directly to your location to provide assistance. They also have an app that can be downloaded onto your phone. See the link below for more info.

The following are signs of a drug or alcohol overdose:

• Passed out and cannot be woken up
• Not breathing, breathing very slowly, or making gurgling sounds
• Lips are blue or grayish in color

The Facts About Alcohol Poisoning…

Some people laugh at the behavior of others who are drunk. Some think it’s even funnier when they pass out. But there is nothing funny about the aspiration of vomit leading to asphyxiation or the poisoning of the respiratory center in the brain – both of which can result in death.

Do you know the dangers of alcohol poisoning?

When should you seek professional help for a friend?

Sadly, too many young adults say they wish they had sought medical treatment for a friend. Many end up feeling responsible for alcohol-related tragedies that could have easily been prevented.

Critical signs of alcohol poisoning:

• Mental confusion, stupor, coma, or person cannot be roused
• Vomiting
• Seizures
• Slow breathing (fewer than 8 breaths per minute)
• Irregular breathing (10 seconds or more between breaths)
• Hypothermia (low body temperature), bluish skin color, paleness

Even if the victim lives, an alcohol overdose can lead to irreversible brain damage. Rapid binge drinking (which often happens on a bet or a dare) is especially dangerous because the victim can ingest a fatal dose before becoming unconscious.

Don’t be afraid to seek medical help for a friend who has had too much to drink. Don’t worry that your friend may become angry or embarrassed.  Remember – you cared enough to help!

Information Sources: NIAAA, NYS DOH, DC DBCH