Both legal and illegal substances can be misused. Hand sanitizer is an easily accessible household product that some people consume as a substitute for alcohol. If inhaled or ingested, some substances (including ethanol-based hand sanitizer) can have serious and potentially fatal consequences. Signs of alcohol poisoning include loss of balance, sleepiness, low blood sugar, seizures, coma, and can be fatal.
What to do if you suspect someone has inhaled or ingested hand sanitizer (or any poisonous substance):
- Call 9-1-1 in an emergency situation (person won’t wake up, isn’t breathing, or is having a seizure). Follow directions of 9-1-1 operator until emergency response personnel arrive.
- Stay calm and try to calm the individual.
- Call 8-1-1 or 1 888-709-2929 for non-emergency medical advice and health information.
Substance misuse and substance use disorders are complex health issues. Awareness, knowledge, and compassion can help break down the stigma associated with substance misuse. Recognizing when someone is in medical distress and knowing what to do if an overdose or poisoning is suspected can help save someone’s life.
Helpful Resources
- Call HealthLine at 8-1-1 or 1 888-709-2929 medical advice, health information, mental health, virtual care)
- Lifewise Mental Health Peer Support Warmline 1 855.753.2560 https://lifewisenl.ca/
- Bridge the gapp https://www.bridgethegapp.ca/ OR https://bridgethegapp.ca/youth-national/
- Wellness Together Canada (24/7 free and confidential mental health and substance use help) 1 866.585.0445
- Kids Help Phone 1 800.668.6868 or text 686868
- Indian Residential Schools Crisis Line 1 800.721.0066 (24/7)
The Action Team looks forward to providing regular updates through the Town of Happy Valley-Goose Bay’s Facebook page and website, and the Labrador Affairs Secretariat’s webpage at https://www.gov.nl.ca/exec/las/overview/