The Basics
According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, alcohol is often a prominent part of the college social scene but too often, students are harmed by the negative effects of high-risk drinking. High-risk drinking, also known as binge drinking, is also defined as 5 or more alcoholic drinks in a two-hour period for men; and 4 or more alcoholic drinks in a two-hour period for women.
The consequences of alcohol abuse can lead to poor academic performance, unintentional injuries and more. The information contained in this section can help you navigate through alcohol-related resources and information specifically designed for students within the FSU community.
Reducing your risk for binge drinking can occur by identifying what is considered “A Standard Drink” and utilizing protective strategies.
Alcohol Poisoning
The information outlined below will help you identify key signs of alcohol poisoning.
- Unconscious and cannot be roused
- Vomiting while unconscious
- Slow, shallow breathing
- Cold, clammy skin
- Blue extremities (fingers, toes, lips)
What should you do if you suspect someone has alcohol poisoning?
- Call 911 (or FSU Police at 850-644-1234, if on campus)
- Roll them on their side
- Stay with the person needing assistance until help arrives
What Should You Not Do If You Suspect Someone Has Alcohol Poisoning?
- Do not hesitate to call 911
- Do not leave the person alone
- Do not try to give the person anything to eat or drink
- Do not put the person in a cold shower
- Do not just let them “sleep it off.”
Blood Alcohol Content (BAC)
Blood Alcohol Content, also known as Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC), refers to the percent of alcohol present in the blood. In order to determine a person's absolute BAC level, it can only be obtained by drawing a sample of blood. However, if it is only an estimated BAC that is desired, estimates can be obtained by utilizing breathalyzers. In order to reduce your risk of alcohol poisoning, please click on one of the guides below.
Be an Active Bystander
Take action if you are concerned about someone
- Direct: Confront all involved and show you are a witness to what is happening.
"Are you ok? Are they bothering you? Do you want to go home?" - Distract: Create an interruption that separates target and aggressor.
"Can you help me with something? Hey, I want you to meet someone." - Delegate: Engage Allies.
If your friend looks drunk, you should check on them. "Let’s call the police."
How to Help a Friend
- If you care, show concern
- Avoid blaming, lectures, and verbal attacks
- Keep an open mind about how your friend evaluates their situation
- Encourage non-drinking behavior by planning activities not related to alcohol
- Limit personal drinking when you are with your friend who has a problem
- Encourage friend to take advantage of campus resources
Amnesty
Our top priorities at Florida State University are student safety and well-being. We support a safe and inclusive environment by encouraging students and student organizations to take immediate action in seeking emergency medical attention for individuals who need medical care.
In serious or life-threatening situations, particularly where alcohol poisoning or drug overdose is suspected or where other medical treatment is reasonably believed to be appropriate, students may qualify for Amnesty should they take the following steps:
- SEEK Help: Call 9-1-1 or FSU Police Department if on campus: (850) 644-1234
- STAY: Remain with the person needing assistance until emergency responders arrive.
- SHARE: Provide emergency responders with as much information as possible including the amount/dose of substances consumed.
