*Warning: The following blog post contains mentions of sexual assault and rape.*
Statistics show that nearly every minute in the United States, someone is sexually assaulted. A large majority of victims were drinking when the incident occurred, which stresses the importance of drug detection technologies.
From date rape test cards and drink covers to Drink Detectives, there are several solutions out there that can prevent the spiking of drinks and, in turn, work to fight off sexual assault. First, it’s important to know the types of drugs that are commonly placed in alcoholic beverages by sexual predators.
Date rape drugs are tasteless, odorless, and colorless. When consumed, they can cause side effects such as dizziness, amnesia, and disorientation. The three main ones are:
- GHB, or gamma hydroxybutyrate, a central nervous system sedative
- Rohypnol, a powerful sedative known as roofies
- Ketamine, referred to as Special K, which is an injectable anesthetic
In order to minimize the risks of a drink being spiked with a date rape drug, keep the following tips in mind:
- Don’t leave your drink unattended
- Understand the effects that alcohol and these other substances can have on your body
- Seek help immediately if you feel any date rape drug symptoms
- Don’t take an open drink from anyone or drink from open containers like punch bowls
- Carry a Drink Detective with you
A Drink Detective can screen for major date rape drugs. If these harmful substances are present, the test result will contain a dark blue color. This is an effective, quick, easy way to practice safety. Furthermore, businesses, organizations, and schools can get custom Drink Detectives, which can be sold online, passed out in shops, included with swag bags, handed out at events, and included with purchases.
We urge you to continue shopping for safe drink technology here, and remember to stay alert, stay in control, and stay safe.