Drink spiking is the act of adding drugs to someone鈥檚 drink with the intention of getting them 鈥渙ut of it鈥� to make other acts easier. Sometimes the intent is to rob the person, sometimes it may be rape or harm.
While drugs like Rohypnol are sometimes used, even 鈥渇riends鈥� may do it to their mates, adding shots of vodka to beers, or 鈥渄ropping a pill to help them have a good night鈥�. This is a low act, potentially lethal and, no matter the intent, people who do this deserve to do jail time.
The key to avoiding drink spiking is to never let your drink out of your sight.
If a stranger or a new friend offers to buy you a drink, head to the bar with them and watch your drink being poured. Once that drink is in your hand, never let go.
If you leave your drink unattended, even for a moment, I recommend leaving it and getting a new drink. You just never know.
If you notice a funny taste in your drink, don鈥檛 have it. Take it back to the bar and ask for a new one. Most bar staff will be more than happy to help.
The key is to keep an eye on your drink, from being poured at the bar until it鈥檚 inside your belly.
If you suddenly feel unwell, out of it, or drunk out of proportion to what you have had, there is a chance your drink may have been spiked. Get help straightaway. Let a friend know and ask them to stay with you.
If you are at a bar alone, let the bar staff know and stay with them to get help if required. If you have had any substances, it鈥檚 important to let them know so if you do pass out they can pass this information on to medical staff. Sometimes medications can mix poorly i.e. Viagra, alcohol and amyl nitrate.
If you notice a friend is suddenly intoxicated, stay with them and get them help straightaway.
If your friend passes out, you may need to administer first aid. Stay with them, call an ambulance and get help straightaway.
If you suspect or know of any information about a potential drink spiking, please contact the police. Without knowing what is happening, the police can do nothing.
By DR GEORGE FORGAN-SMITH
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