Beware of Drink Spiking!!!

Hello… Do you know what is drink spiking?

Drink spiking is a crime and there are so many people out there who don’t consider it as a crime because it usually happened without violent and force. However, it’s illegal because it is done without permission from the victims. BEWARE!! Drink spiking happens when alcohol or another substance is added to your drink without you knowing. Even though drink spiking is illegal, it has occurred everywhere in the world. Drink spiking is a dangerous practice that can expose you to unsafe situations including:

• Assault

• Robbery

• Rape and sexual assault

• Unsafe sex leading to unwanted pregnancy or sexually transmitted disease

• Health effects of unknown drugs

• Death.

Some facts about drink spiking:

·         The majority of victims are female

·         Some victims are raped or sexually assaulted

·         Some victims have died from the effects of a spiked drink

·         Many victims knew their attacker

·         Drink spiking does not just happen to young women in their twenties—many victims are aged over 30 years

·         Alcoholic drinks are those most commonly spiked, but incidents have also included having soft drinks, tea, coffee and hot chocolate being spiked

·         Drink spiking does not just happen when drugs are added—many times it is when extra alcohol is added to your drink.

How will I know if my drink has been spiked?

Chances are you will not smell, see or taste any difference to your drink, particularly if it is spiked with alcohol and the most dangerous part is the effect occurs almost immediately. The warning signs include:

·         Feeling dizzy or faint

·         Feeling sick or sleepy

·         Feeling drunk, even if you have only had a little alcohol to drink

·         Passing out

·         Waking up feeling disoriented and sick, with memory blanks about the night before.

How can I prevent my drink being spiked?

Drink spiking happens more than you may realize. It is a growing problem around the world. Research has shown the majority of drink spiking incidents occurs in late night venues such as nightclubs. However, it can happen anywhere even at a private party. By taking some simple precautions you can protect yourself and your friends from drink spiking:

·         Be aware that drink spiking happens—in quiet premises and private parties as well as in noisy, crowded nightclubs.

·         Do not leave your drink unattended—for example when dancing, going to the toilet or becoming involved in a conversation. It only takes a second to add more alcohol or to drop in a pill or some powder.

·         Avoid sharing drinks and be wary of accepting drinks from people you do not know very well.

·         Buy your own drinks and know what you are drinking. Do not drink something you did not see poured or opened.

·         Throw away drinks that taste funny or salty.

·         Try to stick with your group. Potential offenders may try to separate you from your friends.

·         If you feel sick or dizzy ask someone you trust to take you to a safe place.

·         Look out for your friends—many people become more trusting as the night goes on

·          If you notice any change in a friend’s demeanor or behavior, report the incident immediately. Quick action may prevent a sexual assault.

·         If someone collapses and is unconscious, call an ambulance immediately—but do not leave them alone.