Security Professionals & Drug Overdoses: Responsibilities, Risks, and Proper Response

As security professionals, we often find ourselves in high-risk environments where drug use, intoxication, and overdoses are not uncommon. From liquor stores and apartment complexes to public venues and businesses, we operate in places where most people would not feel safe. When confronted with a drug-related medical emergency, our response can mean the difference between life and death—and failing to act appropriately can create serious legal and liability risks for both the client’s business and our security firm.

Recognizing the Signs of Drug Use & Overdose

One of the most important skills for security personnel is recognizing the signs of drug use and potential overdose. Some individuals may just appear intoxicated, while others may be in critical condition. Common overdose symptoms include:

✅ Slow, shallow, or stopped breathing✅ Extreme drowsiness or unresponsiveness✅ Blue or pale lips, face, or fingernails✅ Pinpoint pupils (opioids) or dilated pupils (stimulants)✅ Weak pulse, slow heart rate, or irregular heartbeat

If a person appears to be in distress, immediate medical intervention is required.

Why EMS Must Always Be Contacted

If a person is suspected to be under the influence of narcotics or experiencing an overdose, calling emergency medical services (EMS) should always be the first step. Simply removing the individual from the premises without checking their physical condition could result in severe consequences, including:

🚨 Liability for the Business – If a person dies or suffers harm after being escorted off the property, the business owner could be sued for negligence.

🚨 Liability for the Security Company – If security personnel ignore a medical emergency, both the officer and the security firm could face legal action for wrongful death or failure to provide duty of care.

🚨 Moral and Ethical Responsibility – Security professionals are often first responders in emergency situations. Ignoring a medical crisis contradicts our core mission: to protect life and ensure safety.

Administering Narcan & First Aid Until EMS Arrives

With the rise of opioid overdoses nationwide, security professionals should be trained and equipped to administer Narcan (naloxone), a medication that rapidly reverses opioid overdoses. Narcan is safe, easy to administer, and can save lives while waiting for EMS to arrive.

Security officers should also be trained in basic first aid, including:✔ Placing the person in the recovery position (on their side to prevent choking)✔ Monitoring breathing and pulse✔ Performing CPR if necessary✔ Staying with the person and providing updates to EMS upon arrival

Get Free Narcan Training & Certification

Security professionals can receive free Narcan training and certification through End Overdose. Their program provides comprehensive online training on how to recognize and respond to overdoses, administer Narcan, and take lifesaving action in the field.

🔹 Sign up for free Narcan training at www.endoverdose.net.

By getting certified, security professionals increase their preparedness to handle opioid-related emergencies and help save lives in their communities.

Final Thoughts: Balancing Security & Compassion

As security professionals, our job is not just about removing threats—it’s about ensuring safety for everyone on the property. The way we handle drug-related incidents reflects our professionalism, ethics, and ability to manage crisis situations.

By recognizing signs of drug use, contacting EMS immediately, and administering Narcan or first aid when needed, we protect lives and mitigate liability risks for our clients and our company. Security is not just about enforcement—it’s about responsibility.

📢 Take the next step: Get Narcan certified today at www.endoverdose.net!