Emergency response reference

When something goes wrong.

Calling emergency services should always be the first response in a suspected medical emergency. Most jurisdictions have Good Samaritan protections.

USA / Canada
911Emergency services
1-800-222-1222Poison Control
988Suicide & Crisis
United Kingdom
999Emergency services
111NHS Non-emergency
111Poison advice
Australia
000Emergency services
13 11 26Poisons Info
13 11 14Lifeline Crisis

Suspected opioid / depressant overdose

Warning signs
  • Slow or stopped breathing
  • Blue lips or fingertips
  • Unresponsive to voice or pain
  • Loud, irregular snoring (agonal breathing)
What to do
  1. 1Call emergency services immediately.
  2. 2Administer naloxone (Narcan) if available — repeat every 2–3 min if no response.
  3. 3Place in recovery position on their side.
  4. 4Stay with them until help arrives.

Stimulant / MDMA emergency (overheating)

Warning signs
  • Body temperature dangerously high
  • Confusion or disorientation
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Stopped sweating despite heat
What to do
  1. 1Move to a cool environment immediately.
  2. 2Cool the body — wet cloths, fan, ice on neck/armpits/groin.
  3. 3Sip — do not gulp — water or electrolyte fluid.
  4. 4Call emergency services. Hyperthermia escalates fast.

Psychedelic crisis

Warning signs
  • Severe panic
  • Inability to ground in reality
  • Risk of self-harm
  • Aggression
What to do
  1. 1Move to a quiet, dim, safe environment.
  2. 2Calm voice: 'You took a substance. It will wear off. You are safe.'
  3. 3Stay present; reduce stimulation; avoid restraint.
  4. 4If risk of harm or symptoms escalate, contact emergency or crisis services.

Seizure

Warning signs
  • Convulsions
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Foaming at the mouth
What to do
  1. 1Call emergency services immediately.
  2. 2Clear the area of hard or sharp objects.
  3. 3Do NOT restrain or put anything in their mouth.
  4. 4Once seizing stops, place in recovery position.

Harm reduction notice

This platform provides educational and harm-reduction information adapted from public reference material. It does not endorse, encourage, or facilitate drug use. It is not medical advice. If you or someone near you may be in a medical emergency, contact local emergency services immediately.