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What to do in an Emergency

IF IN ANY DOUBT DIAL 999

Amphetamines, cannabis, ecstasy, LSD and magic mushrooms can sometimes make the user feel tense and panicky.

If this happens:
Calm them and be reassuring.
Try not to panic.
Speak in a normal voice and if you feel scared or worried try not to let them see it;
Explain that the feelings will pass;
Encourage them to settle in a quiet, dimly lit room;
If they start breathing very quickly, calm them down and tell them to take long slow breaths.


Heroin, tranquillisers and misuse of gases, glues and aerosols can make the user feel very drowsy.

If this happens:
Calm them and be reassuring.
Speak in a low, quiet voice and try not to panic;
Don’t frighten or startle them, or let them exert themselves;
Never give coffee to rouse them;
If symptoms persist, place in the recovery position
Don’t hesitate to call an ambulance if they don’t start to become more alert.


Drinking too much alcohol or misusing solvents can cause someone to become unconscious. This can also happen if someone has a bad reaction to a drug or if a person overdoses.

If this happens:
Dial 999 straight away
Place the person in the recovery position so they wont choke if they vomit;
Keep them warm, but not too hot.
However if someone has taken ecstasy they may have overheated.
In this case ensure they have plenty of cool, fresh air and remove any excess clothing such as hats and gloves.
If you know what drug has been take tell the ambulance crew.
If you find the drugs but don’t know what they are give the to the ambulance crew.


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