During an emergency

If someone needs urgent medical help, call 999 for an ambulance. They might be drowsy or unconscious or be having difficulty breathing. Tell the crew everything you know about the drugs they’ve taken and any other information you think might be helpful, such as any known medical conditions.

You may have to wait a while for the ambulance.

• Stay calm, and try to keep the affected person calm too.
• Keep them away from crowds, bright lights and loud noises, and tell them to take slow, deep breaths.
• Stay with them until the ambulance arrives.
• Follow instructions of the call handler.
• Keep yourself safe.

You can help with the person’s breathing by placing them in the recovery position. Read how to do this in the NHS first aid guide.