Durban - While there are coasters and hi-tech nail varnish that can detect drugs in spiked drinks, KwaZulu-Natal police say there are simple tips people should follow to avoid being drugged.
The police’s Colonel Thembeka Mbhele was speaking to The Mercury this week after a 15-year-old girl was admitted to hospital after her drink was allegedly spiked outside an under-18 party in Umhlanga on Friday. Another youngster was also admitted to hospital that night.
Earlier this year, South African Breweries launched the Spike Detector coaster to address the problem of drinks being spiked.
“A partygoer can place a drop of their drink on the coaster’s chemical sensor, which will immediately change colour if any unsafe substances are detected,” SAB said. “A crisis helpline number on the coaster offers access to instant medical assistance should it be needed.”
And in the US, university students have developed a nail varnish called Undercover Colors that changes colour in the presence of date rape drugs, including ketamine and ecstasy.
But Mbhele offered the following advice to youngsters:
* If you are offered a drink by somebody you have only just met or barely know, watch as the drink is ordered and served.
* Prefer unopened bottled drinks or cans over drinks served in glasses.
* Hold your drink so your hand covers the top of the glass.
* Never leave your drink unattended. If you have to leave it and return uncertain as to its safety, get a new one.
* Accept drinks only from people you trust. If you cannot keep an eye on the serving of your drink, or you have any misgivings about the person offering you a drink, it is best to politely decline.
* Avoid sharing other people’s drinks. This could be a ruse to lull you into a false sense of security.
The Mercury