⚠️ Emergency Protocol
Quick Response Guide for Difficult Experiences
Last Updated: January 24, 2026
- Severe physical symptoms (chest pain, seizures, loss of consciousness)
- Suicidal thoughts or behavior
- Violence or danger to self or others
- Symptoms lasting beyond expected duration
- Any uncertainty about physical safety
🚨 Immediate Actions
Secure Environment
Move to safe, comfortable space
Start Breathing
Begin grounding exercises
Get Support
Contact trusted person
Change Music
Calm, soothing sounds
Hydrate
Sip water slowly
Remember
This is temporary
📋 Step-by-Step Protocol
Check for immediate physical danger. If serious medical symptoms present, call emergency services immediately.
Move to comfortable, familiar environment. Ensure person is physically safe (away from hazards, traffic, heights).
Remind them: "This is temporary. You took a substance. You will return to normal. You are safe."
Use 5-4-3-2-1 technique: Name 5 things you see, 4 you can touch, 3 you hear, 2 you smell, 1 you taste.
Guide through slow, deep breathing. 4 seconds in, hold 4 seconds, 4 seconds out, hold 4 seconds. Repeat.
Change lighting (softer), music (calming), temperature (comfortable). Remove overwhelming stimuli.
Maintain calm, reassuring presence. Avoid judgment. Don't leave person alone unless they request it.
Watch for escalation or physical symptoms. Keep track of time. Most difficult experiences resolve within 2-4 hours.
🫁 Guided Breathing Exercise
Follow the circle's rhythm: Breathe in as it expands, breathe out as it contracts
🧘 Grounding Techniques
5-4-3-2-1 Method
5 things you can see
4 things you can touch
3 things you can hear
2 things you can smell
1 thing you can taste
Box Breathing
Breathe in - 4 seconds
Hold - 4 seconds
Breathe out - 4 seconds
Hold - 4 seconds
Repeat 5-10 times
Physical Grounding
• Feel your feet on the ground
• Hold ice cubes or cold water
• Touch soft textures
• Gentle movement or stretching
• Lie down on floor
Mental Anchors
• Repeat calming phrase
• Count backwards from 100
• Name objects in room
• Recall favorite memories
• Focus on one object
📞 Emergency Contacts
Life-threatening situations
Psychedelic peer support hotline
Online chat support 24/7
24/7 substance information
🖨️ Printable Emergency Card
EMERGENCY PROTOCOL CARD
Remember:
- ✓ This is temporary - it will pass
- ✓ You are safe - you took a substance
- ✓ Breathe slowly and deeply
- ✓ Stay in safe environment
Emergency: 911
Fireside Project: 62-FIRESIDE (623-473-7433)
Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222
5-4-3-2-1 Grounding:
5 things I see, 4 I touch, 3 I hear, 2 I smell, 1 I taste
⚕️ Medical Disclaimer
This guide provides general harm reduction information and is not a substitute for professional medical care. If experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek immediate medical attention. Information provided for educational purposes only.