Drug and alcohol emergency information

In a drug or alcohol emergency – dial 000.

If someone is unconscious or unable to speak dial 000 and ask for an ambulance immediately.

Place the person into the recovery position. This will stop them from choking if they vomit.

Keep them warm but not hot.

Continue to check their breathing and pulse. If they stop breathing, start artificial respiration or CPR if you can't find a pulse. Continue to try to revive them until help arrives. 

Stay with them.

If you know what they have taken, tell the ambulance officers. If you don’t know what they have taken but have some of the substance with you, give it to the ambulance officers.

If you are unsure if it is an emergency, still call the ambulance. Ambulance officers will assist over the phone while the ambulance is coming.

Police do not attend unless the ambulance officers call for help or a death occurs.

In a crisis

If the person is agitated, anxious, or paranoid (but not physically aggressive), talk to them calmly and try to reassure them. If they remain distressed, seek medical assistance from a GP or at the emergency department.

If you are unsure what to do, phone healthdirect on 1800 022 222.

Keeping yourself and others safe is most important. Remaining calm and in control can help ease the situation. If it is safe to do so, walk away from the situation and confirm that you will discuss what has happened once the person has calmed down.

Call for police assistance on 13 1444 (or 000 in an emergency) if the person’s behaviour is a threat to themselves or someone else. This can be difficult to do if it is someone close to you, but may be necessary.

If someone is threatening suicide, their safety is most important. They need a mental health assessment as soon as possible. Contact the mental health triage service on 13 1465 (24 hours, 7 days a week).

Further information

Alcohol and Drug Information Service - 1300 13 1340

Confidential telephone counselling, information and referral from 8.30am to 10pm every day.

^ Back to top