Drink spiking advice ahead of the weekend

Friday 01 February 2019

Advice issued earlier this week in response to an alleged instance of drink spiking in St Peter Port is being reiterated ahead of the weekend.

With "dry January" coming to an end for many people, revellers have been reminded to remain vigilant for their own general safety if they're going out for a few drinks tonight or tomorrow.

Anecdotal evidence of drink spiking was shared widely online this week as one woman posted her story on Facebook to raise awareness after falling seriously ill at the weekend. 

Guernsey Police issued a response with general advice about how to keep vigilant while out enjoying a drink. 

"Guernsey is a very safe place to enjoy a night out. But that doesn’t mean people shouldn’t take basic steps to ensure their safety. It’s best to keep your possessions close by, and never leave your drink unattended," a spokesperson said. 

Pictured: Guernsey Police say Guernsey is a safe place to have a night out. 

Bar and restaurant owner Sam Jarrold reiterated the importance of reporting any suspected drink spiking. 

"As a licensee and for our bartenders, customer safety is paramount and although we have never had any confirmed ‘drunk spiking’ at The Hook, I would always encourage our clients to never leave their drinks unattended or to leave with trusted friends.

"In the event of a suspected ‘spiking’ we would strongly encourage you to go straight to the hospital and request a toxicology report, in turn making a formal statement to the police," he said. 

St John's Ambulance issued a set of advice including to avoid drinking jugs of cocktails: 

• Before going out, let someone know where you're going and what time you expect to be home. 
•  Never leave your drink unattended, and keep an eye on your friends' drinks. 
•  Don't accept a drink from someone you don't know. 
•  Consider having bottled drinks and avoiding jugs of cocktails. Some bars provide plastic stoppers or lids, which can reduce the risk of your drink being spiked. 
•  If you think your drink's been tampered with, don't drink it – tell a friend or relative immediately. 
•  Avoid taking expensive equipment with you or anything that could be a target for thieves. 
•  If you think your drink has been spiked tell someone you trust (eg a relative, trusted friend, police officer or medical professional).
•  If you need urgent help, call 999. Be wary of accepting help from a stranger. Don't give out your address to someone you have just met. 
•  If you feel unwell, someone you trust should take you to the Emergency Department. Tell the medical staff that you think your drink's been spiked.