Drink spiking
DRINK SPIKING
Drink spiking is when alcohol or another drug is added to your drink without you knowing. This will result in you becoming drunk or drug affected unexpectedly. Both alcohol, and non-alcoholic drinks can be spiked, and it can happen at clubs, bars and at parties. Spiked drinks are also called a 'mickey firm' or being 'sipped a mickey'.
Depressant drugs, especially sedatives can be used to spike drinks. These drugs are usually used to relax the body or help people sleep. Combined with alcohol they can have very strong effects. This may result in you feeling very drunk and mean that can't remember some or all events that took place after you were drugged.
The drug's effects can start within 15 to 30 minutes, and can last up to 8 hours or longer, depending on the amount used and how much alcohol you have drunk. Effects include feeling sleepy, dizzy or drowsy, loss of motor skills, muscle relaxation, slurred speech, memory loss, impaired judgment, loss of inhibitor, loss of consciousness, visual problems and nausea.
Gamma hydroxy butyrate acid (GHB) can cause amnesia, impair movement and speech, and can be added to drinks without visible trace. GHB is also known as 'fantasy', 'grievous bodily harm' (GBH), liquid ecstasy and 'liquid E'. It comes as a colourless, odourless, bitter or salty-tasting liquid, or as crystal powder GHB has been used medically as a general anesthetic and to treat sleep disorders. The effects of GHB include hallucinations, extreme drowsiness, vomiting, convulsions or seizures, and unconsciousness or abrupt short-term coma. GHB is a dangerous drug in itself. Mixed with alcohol, the harmful effects are stronger.
Drink spiking is an increasing concern for everyone who wants to enjoy a safe night out. There are things you can do to reduce the risks of having your drink tampered.
HOW TO STAY SAFE
Keep your drink with you at all times. Watch it, or ask a friend you can really trust to watch your drink if you move away or go to the toilet. If you leave your drink unattended while dancing, making a phone call or visiting the bathroom, throw it away.
Watch the bar staff as they make your drink, they should do this In front of you not with their backs turned. If they do, ask them to make you another one.
Be aware that because these drugs may be tasteless and/ or colourless, you may not be aware that anything is unusual with your drink.
Refuse drinks from open containers and remember that wide mouth glasses are easier targets.
Recognise that even in "shouts" with trusted friends, drinks could be spiked by others.
Don't taste, share or exchange drinks with others leave your drink it tastes strange.
Realise excessive alcohol/drugs can distort your judgment and make you more vulnerable.
Only accept a drink from someone you know and trust, unless you open it yourself.
Watch out for your friends and stay together, be aware of their behaviour, if a friend looks disproportionately intoxicated to the number of brinks she has had, take them home or to a safe place.
Tell others about the high risk venues where drinks have been known to be spiked with drugs.
WHAT IF IT HAPPENS TO YOU?
- Go to a safe place.
- Call a family member or trusted friend to stay with you and assist in getting the help you need.
- Consider reporting to the police as soon as possible and having forensic medical examination.
- Save any materials such as drink glass, clothing etc. Don't urinate or shower, as evidence could be lost which may be valuable in assisting you to prove any charges.
- Go to a hospital, or private doctor for medical care. There could be a threat of STD, HIV or pregnancy.
- Request urine test to screen for presence of sedating substances.
- Write down as many details as you can remember.
- Phone your nearest Sexual Assault Service for support and information.
For more information follow these links:
Reachout.com.au
The Source - Drink Spiking
NSW Govt. - Drink Spiking
Australian Drug Foundation
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