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University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point > SafePoint > alcohol-poisoning


Four Signs of Alcohol Poisoning

​Pointers Stick Together: You should call 911 if you see someone exhibiting behavior that might indicate alcohol poisoning such as any of the symptoms below or might have hurt themselves in some other way.

  • Cold, clammy, pale or bluish skin.

  • Unconscious or unable to be roused.

  • Puking repeatedly or uncontrollably.

  • Slow or irregular breathing.

After you call 911, place the person on his/her side with knees bent to prevent choking or vomiting. Do not leave that person alone!

REMEMBER: THE ONLY THING THAT CAN SOBER A DRUNK PERSON IS TIME!

  • DO NOT exercise the person.
  • DO NOT allow the person to drive a car or ride bicycle.
  • DO NOT give the person food, liquid, medicines, or drugs to try to sober them up.
  • DO NOT give the person a cold shower; the shock of the cold could cause unconsciousness.
  • DO NOT give the person caffeine as this will only make them wide awake while drunk.
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