One of the most dangerous things about drink spiking is that it can be difficult to identity, particularly if you’re already intoxicated, as the drug or extra alcohol in your drink could be colorless, odorless and tasteless.
That being said, there are a few key warning signs to watch for which include:
- Feeling dizzy or faint
- Feeling ill or sleepy
- Passing out
- Waking up feeling uncomfortable and confused, with memory blanks about the night before
As always, prevention is best! I recommend the following basic self defense protocols:
- Always trust your instincts! If your gut tells you someone seems shady, listen to it. If your uncertain whether your drink may have been tampered with, don’t drink it. If you suspect your drink has been spiked, tell someone.
- Strength in numbers! Don’t go out alone, don’t allow yourself to get isolated from your friends, never leave a party or venue by yourself and ensure someone always knows your whereabouts at all times.
- Stay aware! It’s important to always know your surroundings and know them well. Take note of people and places. Watch the bar tender make your drink, or choose a bottled variety and watch it be opened. Keep an eye on your drink and don’t leave it unattended. Watch out for your friends. Watch out for suspicious characters. Know where security guards are, where exits are, where your friends are.
- Be empowered! You should know basic self-defense techniques and strategies to ensure your safety and to escape potentially dangerous situations. Never allow yourself to be over-powered or taken advantage of simply because you were incapable of fighting back. Always resist, and ideally arm yourself with the knowledge of how to do so well.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF YOUR DRINK HAS BEEN SPIKED?
In the unfortunate circumstance that your drink has been tampered with:
- Ask someone you trust to help you get to a safe place
- If you’re not out with people you trust, talk to one of the venue staff or security
- If you feel really unwell or have been sexually assaulted, go to an emergency department or the nearest hospital
- Ask your doctor to test for the presence of drugs – urine or blood tests can pick up traces of certain drugs up to 24 hours later
- Report the incident to the police
WHAT CAN WE DO BETTER TO PROTECT VICTIMS OF DRINK SPIKING?
The best thing you can do is be proactive. Look after yourself and the people around you the best you can. If you see something that doesn’t look or feel quite right, report it to staff or security and remove yourself or your friend from the situation. You just never know, your gut instinct might be the difference between encountering a potentially traumatic situation, or getting home safely.
Because one victim is too many.
Be safe. Be aware. Be empowered.
If you would like more information about booking a Ladies-Only Self Defense Course, please CONTACT ME. I offer both public and private courses to small and large groups across the Dallas/Fort Worth area. I’d love to help you, or a woman you love, to be safer and stronger today.
