DRINK SPIKING SPOTLIGHT ON

Drink spiking is becoming more prevalent –here’s what you need to know.

Drink spiking is nothing new, but it does appear to be getting more frequent. It essentially refers to when someone puts a substance in your drink, or injects you with a substance, without your knowledge

The Signs Of Spiking

If you are drinking alcohol, it can sometimes be difficult to detect if your drink has been spiked. It may taste the same, smell the same and look the same, but the substances used can cause some side-effects. These side-effects can be similar to the feeling of being drunk, so keep an eye on how much you and your friends drink to determine or consent. It is a criminal offence to do this. Sometimes people do this to commit further crimes such as theft, or more commonly, a sexual offence. Remember, if this ever happens to you, it is not your fault.

Never go off alone or share a taxi with someone you don’t know. Ask a friend to take you home or call a friend or relative to pick you up. If you are alone and feel unsafe, dial 999.

Call the police as soon as you can on 101 (or dial 999 if you are in immediate danger). The police may be able to conduct tests to determine whether you have been spiked but to get the most accurate result it’s important to do these as soon as possible.

5 Top Tips To Avoid Drink Spiking

1 Never accept a drink from someone you do not know and trust.

whether any of the following symptoms seem unusual:

● Feeling unbalanced or struggling to stand up

● Feeling or being sick

● Feeling tired or falling asleep

● Feeling confused

● Blacking out

2 Never leave your drink unattended.

3 Never try someone else’s drink.

4 Cover the top of your drink with your hand, if you are able to.

5 If your drink tastes weird or you start feeling odd, immediately throw your drink away.