How to Prevent Alcohol Poisoning

Some people find drunkenness humorous, even when a person is vomiting and passing out after a night of partying. But alcohol poisoning is no laughing matter and can be life-threatening. Preventing alcohol poisoning is best done before the situation gets out of hand. Follow these steps to prevent alcohol poisoning.

Instructions

1. Eat before drinking alcohol. Pasta, bread and crackers are foods that can absorb the alcohol and slow its entry into your system. Drink plenty of water and stay away from carbonated drinks as they can make matters worse. Snack in between each drink, allowing absorption.

2. Limit the amount of alcohol you consume. Don't exceed one drink per hour. Drinking large quantities of alcohol in a short time, such as on a dare or during chugging games, will lead to alcohol poisoning and may cause death.

3. Stop all drug use while drinking alcohol. Drugs can produce various reactions when mixed with beer and wine and may create an adverse reaction.

4. Refrain from sleeping or allowing the person who consumed too much alcohol to fall asleep. You do not want them to become unconscious or fall into a coma which can eventually lead to death. Check the person's pulse and be sure they stay awake.

5. Position the person on their side if they are vomiting from consuming too much alcohol. Use a finger to clean out the person's mouth. Usually if a person dies from drinking too much it's because they inhaled their own vomit, causing them to choke.

Tips & Warnings

• Get medical help immediately for anyone who loses consciousness after drinking. Alcohol poisoning can occur very quickly and some people's metabolisms make them susceptible even after drinking only small amounts.