Stay Safe

Spiking is never the victims fault. However, there are things you can do to keep yourself safe and to look out for others when you are out or socialising with others.

If you think you are witness to spiking it is important to act if it is safe to do so. An appropriate intervention could prevent someone becoming a potential victim of harm and exploitation.

Signs of spiking appear suddenly and can include rapid changes in levels of intoxication, drowsiness, confusion vomiting, loss of consciousness or being disorientated. If you see someone experiencing these symptoms, report it to someone you trust, bar staff or the Police immediately. Dial 999 in an emergency.

Some helpful and safe Bystander Interventions are:

• Notice something is happening within the social venue/event
• Recognise that there is something potentially wrong
• Consider if you/others have a personal responsibility to intervene and how to do this safely
• Inform others if you have any concerns and allow staff/others to act

Keep yourself safe when socialising by:

• Never leaving your drink unattended, whether it is alcoholic or not
• Never accept a drink from someone you don’t know
• Don’t drink or taste anyone else’s drink
• Throw your drink away or take it back to the bar if it tastes strange or different
• Avoid drinking or taking substances which impact upon your safety and wellbeing
• Always stick together with friends and look out for each other, even when within smaller social gatherings. If you are leaving a venue early or going home alone make sure you let your friends know and have a plan for getting home safely