Alcohol Safety
Many adults enjoy drinking alcohol. However, alcohol is dangerous in even small quantities to young children and for anyone in large amounts.
If you suspect someone is in danger from consuming too much alcohol, stay with them to make sure they don’t fall or choke on their vomit. Call 911 if the person is unresponsive or having trouble breathing. Otherwise, call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 for fast, free, confidential assistance, 24/7.
Alcohol Safety Tips
Here a few tips to keep you, your family, and friends safe:
- Avoid drinking too much in a short time. Use a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Calculator to estimate safe limits based on your gender and weight. (The legal limit for driving in Florida is .08, or .02 for those under 21 years of age.)
- Many prescription medications cannot be safely combined with alcohol.
- Avoid drinking alcohol while pregnant.
- Don’t leave drinks unattended in public spaces.
- Dispose of left over drinks promptly.
- At home, store alcohol out of children’s reach.
Alcohol Poisoning
Alcohol poisoning can be a life-threatening condition. Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant, meaning it can slow our reactions and even automatic actions like breathing and heartbeat.
Here are some potential signs and symptoms of alcohol poisoning:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Bluish discoloration to skin, lips, and fingernails
- Slurred speech
- Low body temperature
- Difficulty breathing
- Confusion
- Difficulty walking
- Seizure
- Coma