Alcohol Poisoning: What to Look For and What to Do

When having a few drinks turns dangerous, recognizing the signs of alcohol poisoning can make the difference between life and death. Whether you’re out with friends, at a party, or even just at home, it’s crucial to know what to look for, and what actions to take if someone drinks too much.

What is Alcohol Poisoning?

Alcohol poisoning occurs when someone consumes a toxic amount of alcohol, usually over a short period of time. It depresses the body’s vital functions — breathing, heart rate, and body temperature — and can lead to unconsciousness, vomiting, coma, or death.

If someone has been drinking and shows any of these symptoms, they may be experiencing alcohol poisoning:

• Unconsciousness or semiconsciousness — can’t be woken up
• Vomiting — especially while unconscious
• Slow or irregular breathing — fewer than 8 breaths a minute or 10+ seconds between breaths
• Seizures
• Cold, clammy, pale skin
• Low body temperature (hypothermia)
• Confusion, or inability to speak coherently

These symptoms are serious — do not assume someone will “sleep it off.”

What to Do If You Suspect Alcohol Poisoning

1. Call 999 immediately.
   This is a medical emergency. Don’t wait for the person to “sober up.” Explain the situation clearly to emergency responders.
2. Keep the person awake and sitting up, or in the recovery position.
   If they are unconscious but breathing, turn them on their side to prevent choking on vomit.
3. Never leave them alone.
   Stay with them until help arrives, even if they seem to improve.
4. Don’t try home remedies.
   Cold showers, hot coffee, or walking them around will not help — and can make things worse.
5. Be honest with responders.
   Tell medical personnel exactly what the person drank and how much. It can help save their life.

Prevention Starts With Awareness

• Know your limits and pace yourself.
• Stay hydrated and eat while drinking.
• Watch out for your friends.
• Don’t mix alcohol with drugs or prescription medications.

Checking airways, and putting someone in the recovery position could save their life. Not sure how? Watch the video below

The Recovery Position – First Aid Training – St John Ambulance