Vancouver police warn of increase in tainted beverages
Police are asking the public to be mindful of their drinks this weekend
Vancouver police are warning the public, particularly women, to keep an eye on their beverages following an increase in reports of females being drugged at bars and parties.
According to police, women are often drugged by men that they know.
"Of course the intent of someone doing this is to incapacitate their victim to the point where they’re not able to give or withhold consent and then commit a sexual assault," says Constable Brian Montague.
Some common symptoms of being drugged include light headedness, confusion, acting out uncontrollably and hallucinations.
Police advise to never leave your drink unattended and to throw it out if you’re unsure. Additionally, try to stay with trustworthy friends no matter where you’re heading.
One of most common date rape drugs is GHB, or gamma-hydroxybutyric acid, an anesthetic occasionally used to treat conditions including insomnia and depression. Sometimes known as liquid ecstasy, it is also taken recreationally as a stimulant and aphrodisiac at raves or dance parties.
VPD tips for partying safely
Signs and symptoms you may have been drugged:
- Sudden light headedness.
- Feeling paralyzed or powerless.
- Waking up confused.
- Severe headaches, vomiting.
- Scattered or no memory.
- Intoxication with minimal alcohol.
- Acting out uncontrollably.
- Heightened sex drive.
- Hallucinations, loss of consciousness.
Advice:
- Don’t accept drinks from people you don’t know and never take drinks from open bottles or punch bowls.
- Never leave a drink unattended and if in doubt, throw it out.
- Go out with friends and stay together.
- Don’t leave with a stranger, especially if you feel intoxicated or unwell.
Advice for friends:
- Have a plan to stay together before you go.
- Always go to parties and clubs as a pair or in groups.
- Stay together, watch each other and your drinks.
- Leave if you or your friend feels ill or drunk for no reason.
- Leave with your friend if their behaviour becomes unusual or they appear intoxicated.
- Go to your local hospital if you feel ill.
(Source: Vancouver Police Department)