Spiking is the term used to describe when a person is given drugs or alcohol without their knowledge or consent. Commonly, spiking occurs when somebody puts a drug or alcohol into another person’s drink without them realising. People can also experience 'needle spiking', a method where drugs are injected into someone without their consent.
Spiking can happen to anyone and occur anywhere and can be carried out by strangers or people you know.
How to reduce the risk of spiking
Everyone should feel safe when enjoying themselves, without having to worry about being spiked. However, there are measures you and your friends can take to help reduce the risk of you being spiked and keeping those around you safe from spiking.
- Never leave your drink unattended.
- Be cautious if someone buys you a drink. A good idea is only to accept drinks from people you know and trust.
- Don’t drink or taste anyone else’s drink.
- Look out for your friends and ensure you are looking after one another.
- Be mindful of people reaching over your drinks.
- Consider purchasing drinks that are enclosed in busy places.
- Alert staff straight away if you see someone acting suspiciously around drinks.
- Throw your drink away if you think it tastes strange or the appearance looks different.
- If you or a friend feel unwell, seek help from security or venue staff and call an ambulance immediately.