Overdose Emergency Plan: What to Do When Someone Overdoses

When someone overdoses, every second counts. An overdose emergency plan, a clear, practiced set of actions to take during a drug overdose isn’t just advice—it’s a lifeline. It’s what turns panic into action, and sometimes, it’s the difference between life and death. This plan isn’t just for people who use drugs. It’s for family members, friends, coworkers, and anyone who might be the first to respond when things go wrong.

One of the most critical parts of an overdose emergency plan, a clear, practiced set of actions to take during a drug overdose is knowing how to use naloxone, a medication that can reverse opioid overdoses within minutes. Naloxone works fast, it’s safe, and it’s available without a prescription in most places. But it only works on opioids—like heroin, fentanyl, or prescription painkillers. If someone’s unresponsive, not breathing, or has pinpoint pupils, naloxone could bring them back. And if you’re unsure whether it’s an opioid overdose, give it anyway. It won’t harm someone who didn’t take opioids.

But naloxone isn’t the whole plan. You also need to know how to call 911, how to perform rescue breathing, and how to stay with the person until help arrives. Many overdoses happen because people are too scared to call for help. That fear is real—but the risk of waiting is worse. Some states have Good Samaritan laws that protect people who call 911 during an overdose. And even if you’re not sure about the law, the fact is: calling for help is the right thing to do.

Overdose doesn’t just happen to people with addiction. It can happen to anyone who takes too much of a medication, mixes drugs with alcohol, or doesn’t realize how strong a pill is. Fentanyl, for example, is so powerful that even a tiny amount can be deadly. That’s why having an overdose emergency plan, a clear, practiced set of actions to take during a drug overdose matters more than ever. It’s not about judging who uses drugs—it’s about being prepared for when things go wrong.

You don’t need to be a medical expert to make a difference. Simple steps—like keeping naloxone in your car or medicine cabinet, practicing how to use it, and memorizing the emergency number—can save someone you care about. Many community centers, pharmacies, and health departments offer free naloxone kits and training. And if you’re worried about cost or access, you’re not alone. That’s why we’ve gathered real stories and practical advice from people who’ve been there.

Below, you’ll find real-world guides on how to recognize overdose signs, how to respond when someone stops breathing, how to talk to a loved one about their drug use, and how to store naloxone so it works when you need it. These aren’t theoretical tips. They’re from people who’ve faced this crisis—and lived to help others do the same.