With my eighteenth birthday soon approaching, it has led me to think deeply about my safety, especially when it comes to the time when I wish to start venturing out to bars and nightclubs. With stories of alleged drink spiking recently swarming the news, it is definitely difficult to avoid this concerning matter.
In the past two months, hundreds of drink spiking incidents have been reported to police officials across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. These incidents have involved both men and women, all varying in age. Growing up, my parents always warned me of the dangers that came with nights out of drinking and having fun. "Always keep hold of your drink" they'd say as if to imply that young people having their drinks spiked was a regular occurrence.
For those of you who are unaware, to spike a drink means to put alcohol or drugs into someone's drink without their knowledge or permission. There are different types of spiking, in which certain substances can be added to drinks, some of these include; Alcohol, 'date rape' drugs, illegal drugs, or even tranquilizers. The effects of these substances can be unpredictable, with each individual being affected differently. This is where the danger lies. A pill slipped into one drink, may make one person feel sleepy, but for the next, may result in their life-ending.
Drink spiking shouldn't deter you from going out with your friends and having fun, but instead, should help you identify what you need to do to keep safe. Being aware of the symptoms associated with spiking is key to this. If you or a friend start to feel strange or drunker than you should be, then seek help straight away. Whether this is from a bouncer, police officer, or even someone you trust. Some other symptoms to look out for include: confusion, loss of balance, or even visual problems.
People spike drinks for various reasons, all of which vary in their severity. Some do it with the intention to sexually assault others, whereas others see it as simply a prank. It makes me frustrated, yet sad to think that many of my friends have been victims of drink spiking, with some of them ending up in hospital as a result. I want to ensure that this doesn't happen to myself, or anyone for that matter. So here is a list of things that you can do to protect yourself.
Don't leave your drink unattended ever! This includes leaving it with a friend or someone you know. (Top Tip: Even take it to the toilet with you).
Never accept a drink from a stranger.
Buddy up with a friend or someone you trust, that way you can look out for each other.
With the growing concern of drink spiking, sending shock waves across the country, some have begun to question what action is being taken in order to combat the issue. Some nightclubs have taken it upon themselves to search individuals upon entry, whereas others have considered specific training for their staff, ensuring they are equipped with the correct knowledge to deal with these situations. It appears that there may be a change occurring in the background, but who knows whether this will be implemented. So, I challenge you to continue the conversation further. Bring it up with your friends, work colleges, or someone you happen to meet on the bus. Let's try not to forget the issue, as we are a long way off from reaching an adequate solution.