← Help in Grant County

Someone drank too much and can't stay awake (alcohol poisoning)

Use when someone has been drinking heavily and is passed out, can't be woken, is throwing up while barely awake, or is breathing slowly or strangely.

In danger right now: call 911. Crisis or thoughts of suicide: call or text 988. Not sure where to start? Call the Silver City Gospel Mission: 575-388-5071. Police, fire or sheriff, not an emergency: 575-388-8840 (Central Dispatch). Print our list of phone numbers →
These are the same steps our staff use when they help someone. "They" means the person who needs help: you, or someone you are helping. Go in order, and call ahead when you can.

1Signs it is an emergency

Can't be woken up, or keeps passing out.
Slow breathing (fewer than 8 breaths a minute) or long pauses between breaths.
Throwing up while passed out or barely awake, a seizure, or cold, clammy, pale or blue skin.
Call 911 if you see ANY of these. Don't wait for all of them.
911 (Grant County Regional Dispatch)
Emergency: police, fire, ambulance
911
Silver City · 24/7

2Keep them safe until help comes

Never let them "sleep it off" alone. Their blood alcohol can keep rising after they pass out.
Roll them onto their side, top knee bent, so they won't choke if they throw up.
Stay with them and watch their breathing.
Don't give coffee, food or a cold shower. Don't walk them around. Keep them warm.
If they stop breathing, use the guide "Someone collapsed, isn't breathing, or won't wake up".

3Alcohol withdrawal is also dangerous

Shaking, sweating, seeing things, or a seizure after stopping drinking suddenly needs a doctor right away.
A seizure or confusion during withdrawal: call 911.
Use the guide "Wants to stop drinking".

This guide is general information only, not medical, legal or other professional advice. Places and rules change, so please call before you go. In an emergency, call 911; in a mental health crisis, call or text 988. Disclaimer

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If a number or place here is wrong, you know a better resource, or you know a better way to help, tell us. We automatically check reliable sources and update supported routine details. Unclear changes and safety guidance go to our staff for review.

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Print these steps · Find more places to get help · Hours and numbers change; please call ahead. Something wrong? Tell us
Questions, or want someone to walk through this with you? The Silver City Gospel Mission, 111 S. Texas St., Silver City, 575-388-5071, weekdays 9:00am-1:45pm. Everyone is welcome.