The holiday season has begun and Christmas is almost here. It’s the season of celebration and of course, you are going to parties, gatherings, and night-outs more than ever. But this is also the time of rise in spiking. Spiking or drinking spiking is on the rise, as crowded venues, the dim lighting, and the carefree atmosphere of celebration can be an easier opportunity for perpetrators to slip something in your drink without anyone noticing. But that doesn’t really mean that you should miss out on all the fun of hanging out with your family and friends. Understanding what spiking is, how to stay vigilant, and what first aid steps you can take if you or someone you know is affected, will help you to navigate through the parties, celebrations, and festive cheer without missing out on the fun and safety.
What is spiking?
(Pic courtesy: iStock)
Spiking or
drink spiking
is when someone adds alcohol or other drugs intentionally to another’s drink without their knowledge or consent.
Spiking can happen to anyone, anywhere, including pubs, clubs, parties, festivals and at home. People may spike drinks with the intent to hurt or steal from others or commit sexual assault, or as a ‘prank’ to get someone drunk or high.
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According to a UK survey, nearly 23% of people aged between 18 and 43 have felt that they had ‘definetly’ been spiked, and 41% believe they had ‘possibly’ been spiked.
How to know if you are a victim of spiking?
(Pic courtesy: iStock)
Spiking is a serious crime. It can make you quite ill. Here’s a list of signs to look out for in yourself or someone you are accompanying, to know if you/ they are spiked.
- Feeling drunk or sleepy when you have only had a small amount of alcohol or no alcohol at all
- Confusion and disorientation
- Dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Hallucinations and paranoia
- Poor co-ordination
- Blurry vision
- Inability to communicate
- Memory loss and blackouts
- Difficulty walking or communicating
What to do if you feel you are spiked?
(Pic courtesy: iStock)
Act immediately, if you or someone you know is spiked.
- Tell your friends or someone you trust.
- Inform the bar attender or security, if you are at a venue.
- Call emergency services and the police if required.
- Ensure you are somewhere where you feel safe.
- If you or someone you know feel unwell or have been sexually assaulted, call the emergency services and police right away.
(Pic courtesy: iStock)
I’m Manas Ranjan Sahoo: Founder of “Webtirety Software”. I’m a Full-time Software Professional and an aspiring entrepreneur, dedicated to growing this platform as large as possible. I love to Write Blogs on Software, Mobile applications, Web Technology, eCommerce, SEO, and about My experience with Life.
