Recognizing the signs of an overdose can be a lifesaving skill for someone in need of help. Alcohol is one of the top drug choices for teens, making teens at high risk for over-consumption of alcohol. More readily available that other kinds of drugs and often done in secrecy by underage drinkers, teens may be hesitant to call for help and more likely to drink too much.
Combining binge drinking with inexperienced teens in unsupervised settings is a recipe for disaster. Learning how to recognize alcohol poisoning is a useful skill. In this activity, students will create a three cell storyboard explaining the signs of overdose, how to help, and what to do while waiting. This should be covered in class prior to the assessment, and students should not depict actual use of the drug.
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Student Instructions
Demonstrate your understanding of alcohol poisoning and how to get help by creating a storyboard.
Design a lesson that actively involves students in learning about alcohol safety. Use age-appropriate materials and interactive activities to make the information relatable and memorable. Connecting real-life scenarios helps students understand the importance of safe choices.
Start your lesson by using an anonymous poll or question box to gauge what students already know about alcohol and its risks. This creates a safe space for honest answers and helps you tailor your discussion to address gaps in knowledge.
Present realistic scenarios involving alcohol poisoning and ask students to work in groups to identify warning signs and determine appropriate responses. Encouraging teamwork builds confidence in recognizing and reacting to emergencies.
Assign students to make posters that highlight the signs of alcohol poisoning and what to do in an emergency. Visual aids reinforce learning and can be displayed around the classroom to keep the information visible.
Organize a brief role-play where students practice calling for help and supporting someone with alcohol poisoning. Hands-on practice boosts students’ confidence and preparedness for real-life situations.
Key signs of alcohol poisoning include disorientation, cold and clammy hands, vomiting, low coordination, unconsciousness, slurred or unclear speech, blue-tinged skin, and slow breathing or pulse. Recognizing these symptoms early can be lifesaving.
If you suspect alcohol poisoning, call 911 immediately, stay with the student, keep them awake and on their side to prevent choking, and notify a trusted adult. Do not give food, more alcohol, medication, or coffee.
Stay with the individual, keep them awake if possible, offer water if they can drink, and place them on their side or sitting up. Inform them calmly about what is happening and prevent choking until help arrives.
Do not feed the person, give them more alcohol, offer medication, provide coffee, ask them to walk it off, or put them in a shower. These actions can worsen the situation or increase risks.
Teachers can use interactive activities like having students create a storyboard with sections on overdose signs, getting help, and what to do while waiting. This helps students visualize scenarios and reinforces safe responses.