Whether college students are going to bars and parties on campuses or away on spring break, they need to be mindful of their surroundings and what is going into their drinks. Agents with the Ohio Investigative Unit want students who are going away on spring break to keep these safety tips in mind, just like they would locally.
Before friends leave for the beach or a night out, OIU recommends they stick together until they are home safe and to be on the lookout for drink tampering. Anyone who sees someone tampering with a drink should get that person out of the situation and contact authorities.
Tips to protect yourself and your friends against drink tampering:
- Know that both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks can be drugged;Watch your drink being poured and served;
- Do not leave your drink – Get a new one;
- If you see a drink being tampered with or an impaired person, your involvement – whether directly or by contacting security and law enforcement – can save someone’s life or future;
- Likewise, bar staff is reminded it is their responsibility to get involved and to make sure their patrons are safe.
“You don’t have to know the person to know that they’re impaired and cannot help themselves,” OIU Commander Captain Gary Allen said. “We know drugged drinks can happen here and elsewhere. It’s the people around who can make a difference in someone’s life. Don’t turn your back, act.”
Student groups and organizations can learn more about how to protect themselves when going out by scheduling a Sober Truth program. Also, bar staff is encouraged to contact OIU to learn about keeping their patrons safe through an Alcohol Server Knowledge program. Both the Sober Truth and ASK programs are free. To schedule either program, contact OIU at (614) 644-2415.
