OVERDOSE RESPONSE

DON'T BE AFRAID TO CALL FOR HELP:

NYS Good Samaritan Law states that if you call for emergency services for yourself or someone else who is overdosing, you won't get in trouble for possession of any substances or paraphernalia.

PLEASE CALL FOR HELP IN THE EVENT OF A MEDICAL EMERGENCY!

Stimulants: Seizures, stroke, heart attack, severe overheating, psychosis

Depressants: Slow/shallow breathing or no breathing, unresponsive, weak or no pulse, seizures

Signs of Stimulant Overdose:

  • Fast heart rate

  • Dizziness

  • Irregular breathing

  • Fever

  • Seizures

  • Increased body temperature/sweating

  • Chest pain.

  • Paranoia/psychosis

  • Erratic motion/flailing/shaking

  • Hallucinations

 

WAYS TO RESPOND:

  • Move the person to a safe, quiet environment. Clear out the space to reduce feelings of paranoia and anxiety.

  • Engage the person in positive conversation - tell them that there going to be okay. Help them walk around if they seem able to do so. Fresh air, music, low lighting, and a quiet setting can also help.

  • Try to get them to drink cool water. Use ice or cool water (a cool wet cloth also works!) on the wrists or forehead to cool them off. Put them next to a fan/AC if possible. If outside, try to find a shady place

Signs of Depressant Overdose:

  • Difficulty breathing/not breathing at all

  • Unresponsive/won't wake up

  • Bluish or greyish skin lips, fingernails

  • Weak or no pulse

  • Vomiting/seizures

WAYS TO RESPOND:

  • If someone who has taken opioids/is suspected of taking opioids has signs of overdose administer NALOXONE

    It’s also possible to administer naloxone to yourself if you notice any of these signs

  • If the person isn't breathing then tilt the head back, pinch the nose, and give two rescue breaths.

    Continue to have one breath every 4 seconds until help arrives.

  • If the person is going in and out of consciousness, roll them on their side with the top arm and knee bent.

    This will help prevent choking on vomit, tongue etc

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