If it were booze we’d probably feel more confident in dealing with an emergency. With the other drugs, because of the hype and the lack of info it’s not surprising we feel less confident.

Here’s a few guidelines If somebody collapses

• Put them in the recovery position.
• Call an ambulance (dial 999 in the UK)
• Tell the paramedic what they have taken if you know (they will need to know to be able to help them!)

If they stop breathing…

• If you know how to perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation do so, if you don’t – find someone who does.
• If someone is drowsy:
  cool fresh air helps
• Coffee does not sober someone up, it just speeds up the rate at which alcohol is moved around the body.

If someone has taken too much of a stimulant:

• they might hyperventilate, be breathless, be at risk of putting strain on their heart so… keep them calm, relaxed, and be reassuring.

The Golden Rule:

Better safe than sorry!
if in doubt – call an ambulance

Prescription Drugs

• Many prescription drugs react with illegal drugs and either have adverse effects or potentiate (the sum of the two drugs is greater than their own values together, i.e.: 1 + 1 = 3 )
• For further information of prescribed drugs check out the British Medical Formula in your local library or from a large book store (or ring your local drugs project.)