Stay safe this festive season
Birmingham famously has a great nightlife, and as a student, you can take your pick of venues across the city and within the local area. Whilst we want everyone at UoB to have fun and enjoy themselves over the holidays, it’s also important to be aware of drink spiking in order to keep yourself safe during the festive period.
What is drink spiking?
Drink spiking refers to when something is added to your drink without your knowledge. This could be alcohol or drugs. Spiking is dangerous, illegal, and can lead to serious harm.
What to look out for:
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Feeling confused
- Drowsiness and/or dizziness
- Breathing problems
- Memory loss
- Visual problems
- Loss of consciousness
- Loss of balance
Some of these symptoms are also associated with drinking too much alcohol, but if you feel unwell, always seek medical advice.
Steps to prevent drink spiking
- Never leave your drink unattended and keep a close eye on your friends’ drinks.
- Think twice about accepting a drink from a stranger.
- Avoid sharing drinks with other people.
- If you think your drink tastes funny or may have been spiked, do not drink it. Tell a member of staff immediately.
Where to get help
If you suspect that a friend’s drink has been spiked, it’s important to get them help as quickly as possible.
Inform a member of staff immediately. Don’t let friends go home alone or leave with someone they don’t know.
If a friend’s condition starts to worsen, for example if they feel very sleepy, sick or are hallucinating, call an ambulance to take them to the nearest A&E department. Inform medical staff that you think their drink has been spiked.
Support after drink spiking
If you have experienced drink spiking, we’re here for you. You can:
Enjoy the festive season and stay safe.