Alcohol & Other Drugs
“If you thought you learned in high school everything you need to know about alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs, think again. These are complex topics and your college experience is likely to be very different. We have assembled some information to assist you in making choices while you are part of the Cornell community” –Gannett
Gannett and Cornell offer a wide variety of resources to help you learn more about alcohol and other drugs and some experiences you may encounter.
What are the signs of alcohol poisoning?
- Inability to rouse the person with loud shouting or vigorous shaking
- Inability of a person who was passed out to stay awake for more than 2-3 minutes
- Slow or irregular breathing or lapses in breathing
- Weak pulse, very rapid pulse, or very slow pulse
- Cold, clammy, or bluish skin
- Vomiting while passed out, not waking up after vomiting, or incoherent while vomiting
What do I do in an emergency?
- Don’t just let them “sleep it off.”
- Call for help:
- 911 emergency
- 607 255-1111 for Cornell Police
- 607 255-5155 for Gannett consultation (24/7) - Stay with the person until help arrives.
- Turn the person on his/her side to prevent choking if the person vomits.
- Be prepared to give the emergency medical personnel as much information as possible, including any drugs or medications taken.
Where can I find services and resources regarding alcohol and other drugs?
Gannett offers a wide variety of services that are sensitive to the challenges that university students face regarding alcohol and other drug use. We provide services for students who want to learn more about their own use of alcohol and other drugs, reduce or eliminate their use, or are worried about a friend or family member’s use or dependency. In addition, the Cornell and Ithaca community are home to many self help groups and treatment facilities. Click “Gannett” above for information.
Where can I find answers to common questions about other drugs, such as Marijuana, Adderall, and Ecstacy?
Click here.
What happens if I get too drunk?
To stay safe you shouldn’t drink alone or leave a party alone, you should know your limits, and don’t give into peer pressure. You should also know that you are protected if you are too drunk. If you need help, Cornell offers a blue light service on campus meant to provide you with an escort or any kind of assistance, take advantage of this! Also, it is important to know that if you are intoxicated, you can’t give consent to any sexual conduct and are protected against any type of unwanted sexual advances under Cornell’s policy. If you would like to talk about any event that may have occurred while you were intoxicated, you can contact Gannett counseling services, (607) 255-5155, the Cornell Police, (607)255-1111, or EARS (607)255-EARS.
What if I need to call a cab?
Know the numbers- they are easy! 607-277-7777, or 607-277-TAXI, or 607-277-CABS
Tell me more about the blue light service?
Cornell’s pioneering Blue Light Program promotes and safeguards personal security and well being on the Cornell campus, particularly at night. Blue Lights can be found around campus. If a caller doesn’t or can’t speak, an officer is immediately dispatched to the phone site. You may request an escort through these blue lights or by calling (607)255-7373.

