|
As we are now well into the festive season the risk of spiking increases. Although it isn't a big problem in our areas, its always good to be aware of things to look out for to see if your drink has been spiked, however please remember that people can also be spiked via injection which can be less obvious if you are in a crowded place. Keep this in mind if you or a friend suddenly becomes unwell on a night out. ✅ 1. Personal Awareness & Safety Never leave your drink unattended—pick it up or finish it before stepping away.
Accept drinks only from trusted sources—avoid accepting drinks from strangers, even if sealed.
Watch your drink throughout the evening—don’t let it out of sight, use drink covers, or hold lids.
Group care: buddy up—stay with friends, agree on returns and journeys home; use “Ask for Angela” if feeling unsafe.
Know the warning signs: any sudden dizziness, confusion, memory loss, slurred speech, drastic intoxication, or strange taste/color in your drink. If these appear, seek help immediately—call 999 in the UK. 🏨 2. Venue & Staff Measures
Train staff Educate employees (especially in pubs, clubs) to recognize suspicious behavior and intervene Safety protocols & deterrents Implement CCTV, visible security, bag searches, and tamper-evident drink lids.
Display posters notifying customers of drink safety measures and encourage reporting. Offer testing tools Provide drink test kits (strips, straws, stickers) free or low-cost
Partner with charities (e.g., Unspiked Inc, Drinkaware) or local councils to distribute test kits.
📣 3. Legal Framework & Reporting
UK law: Spiking is prosecutable under existing offences (e.g., Poisoning, Sexual Offences Act); standalone legislation is being introduced.
Reported cases: England & Wales logged ~6,700 spiking incidents up to April 2023; 80% occurred in public venues like bars/clubs.
🧪 4. Understanding Spiking Substances
Common agents include:
Rohypnol, GHB, ketamine, benzodiazepines, and extra alcohol.
These are often odorless/tasteless, causing rapid incapacitation, confusion, memory loss, unconsciousness, and can be fatal.
🆘 If You Suspect You’ve Been Spiked
Call 999 if you feel unwell or unsafe.
Don’t clean up—preserve the scene (leave the drink).
Inform a trusted friend or staff member; locate first-aid-trained personnel.
At home or later: visit an A&E department to preserve evidence and report to the police.
✅ Summary
For individuals: Stay alert, keep drinks close, move in groups, and use testing tools where available.
For venues: Train staff, implement visible safeguards, provide testing kits, and maintain a supportive environment.
Stay safe out there and have fun this festive season! 🎄 🎅 🎄 Bakewell Safer Neighbourhood Team 
| 
