Young women and University students have been reporting an increasing number of spikings whilst out clubbing in Middlesbrough.
Over 2,600 students and young people have come forward believing they have been spiked since the start of University this year, The Tab has revealed.
The Middlesbrough Empire is now officially part of the ‘Stamp Out Spiking UK’ with new StopTopps available free at the bar to help cover and protect their customer’s drinks.
They have also urged people to alert Empire staff if they witness any suspicious activity or anything that doesn’t look right.
Empires’ aim is to make Middlesbrough a safer place for everyone.
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What to do if you think you have been spiked:
The effects of drink spiking vary depending on what you’ve been spiked with. Your symptoms could include:
- Lowered inhibitions
- Loss of balance
- Feeling sleepy
- Visual problems
- Confusion
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Unconsciousness
The symptoms will depend on lots of factors such as the substance or mix of substances used (including the dose), your size and weight, and how much alcohol you have already consumed.
If you or a friend start to feel strange or drunker than you should be, then get help straight away.
How to help a friend who has been spiked:
If you think a friend has had their drink spiked, and they are showing any of the symptoms described above there are a few things you can do to help:
- Tell a bar manager, bouncer, or member of staff
- Stay with them and keep talking to them
- Call an ambulance if their condition deteriorates
- Don’t let them go home on their own
- Don’t let them leave with someone you don’t know or trust
- Don’t let them drink more alcohol – this could lead to more serious problems
