What should you do if you suspect someone has alcohol poisoning?

When you suspect someone has alcohol poisoning, it is crucial to take immediate action to ensure their safety and health. Trying to wake the individual and monitoring their breathing is vital because alcohol poisoning can lead to respiratory depression, where breathing may slow or even stop. This can be life-threatening, so keeping an eye on their breathing patterns allows you to respond quickly if their condition deteriorates, providing you the opportunity to call for emergency medical help if needed.

Additionally, monitoring them can help you check for other symptoms of alcohol poisoning, such as confusion, seizures, or vomiting. If the person is unresponsive, it’s imperative to roll them onto their side to prevent choking. Ensuring their safety by keeping a vigilant watch can make a significant difference in their outcome.

Other options, such as leaving them alone to "sleep it off" or waiting for them to recover on their own, pose significant risks, as they do not address the life-threatening effects of alcohol poisoning. Giving them water may also be ineffective or potentially harmful, as a deeply intoxicated person may choke, and their body may not be responsive enough to process the liquid properly. The immediate response should always prioritize their safety through monitoring and seeking help.