Drug Abuse at Sea:

What to do in an emergency

Amphetamines (speed), cannabis, ecstasy and LSD can sometimes make the user feel tense and panicky. If this happens:

Calm the person and be reassuring. Try not to panic. Speak in a normal voice
   and if you feel scared or worried, try not to let them see it
Explain that the feelings will pass
Encourage them to settle in a quiet, dimly lit room
If they start breathing very quickly calm them down and tell them to take long, slow    breaths

Heroin, tranquillisers and misuse of gases, glues and aerosols can make the user feel very drowsy. If this happens:

Calm the person and be reassuring. Speak in a low, quiet voice and try not to panic
Do not frighten or startle them, or let them exert themselves
NEVER give coffee to rouse them
If symptoms persist, place them in the recovery position
Obtain medical advice by radio if they do not start to become more alert

An overdose of most drugs will cause unconsciousness. This can also happen if someone suffers a bad reaction to ecstasy or if an ecstasy user dances energetically without taking regular breaks or drinking enough fluids. If this happens:

Place the person in a recovery position so they will not choke if they vomit
Check breathing. Be prepared to do mouth-to-mouth resuscitation
Keep them warm, but not too hot. However if someone has taken ecstasy and you think    they may have overheated, make sure they have plenty of cool, fresh air and remove any    excess clothing such as hats, gloves, etc.
Stay with them at all times
Call for medical assistance by radio. If the casualty is evacuated send any drugs found in    their possession with the casualty

The Recovery Position

Pull up the leg and the arm on the side
to which the head is facing,
pull up the chin;
Stretch other arm out as pictured