Learn about Alcohol

What is Alcohol?

• Alcohol is a drug. Like other sedatives, it is a central nervous system depressant. Alcohol is the major psychoactive ingredient in wine, beer and distilled liquor and is found in many prescription and over the counter medications. It is formed naturally by the reaction of fermenting sugar with yeast spores. The kind of alcohol in alcoholic beverages or medications is
  
  
  Legally Drunk - How much alcohol is too much?
  First and foremost, NEVER drink and drive (or bike)
• Use the Blood Alcohol Calculator (BAC) on this website to estimate how much alcohol consumption will get you a D.U.I. or B.U.I.
    

Alcohol Poisoning

Critical Symptoms - How do I know if I have Alcohol Poisoning? (Courtesy of Collegedrinkingprevention.gov)

• Mental confusion, stupor, coma, or person cannot be roused
• Vomiting
• Seizures
• Slow breathing (fewer than eight breaths per minute)
• Irregular breathing (10 seconds or more between breaths)
• Hypothermia (low body temperature), bluish skin color, paleness
   
  http://www.collegedrinkingprevention.gov/OtherAlcoholInformation/factsAboutAlcoholPoisoning.aspx
  

What should I do if someone has alcohol poisoning?

1. Don't wait until all the symptoms are present
2. Be aware, a person who has passed out may die
3. If you think they're overdosed on alcohol, call 911 for help. Don't try to guess how drunk they are.

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