Students sitting on quad on a sunny day

Medical Amnesty

The University of Rhode Island Medical Amnesty policy, as defined in the Student Handbook:

Actions taken to preserve life and/or safety of students in emergency situations shall not expose students to Student Conduct charges regarding alcohol or drug consumption if that student’s role in the situation is to call for help or emergency services.

Acute alcohol poisoning

There are specific signs and symptoms of Acute Alcohol Poisoning which would require medical intervention immediately. These signs and symptoms include:

  • The person is unconscious or semi-conscious and cannot be roused.
  • The person has cold, clammy, pale or bluish skin.
  • The person’s breathing is slow or irregular.
  • The person vomits while passed out and is not waking up after vomiting.

Make the call

If an individual is experiencing any of the above symptoms after drinking alcohol, it is possible that they are suffering from Acute Alcohol Poisoning. Please take the following steps and seek medical intervention immediately:

  1. Call 401-874-2121 (on-campus) or 911 (off-campus) for immediate medical attention. If in a residence hall, get a Resident Assistant or Hall Director.
  2. Do not leave the person alone
  3. Do not let them “sleep it off”
  4. Turn the person on their side to prevent choking should vomiting occur

Getting help

Students whose consumption is putting themselves or others at risk can seek supportive services through the University’s Counseling Center, Substance Abuse Prevention Services, or Health Services. Community members who have concerns for a specific student’s substance use can contact Early Alert Services or Outreach and Intervention. If you are unsure who to contact for a specific concern, please reach out to the Dean of Students Office for assistance.