The Boston Police Department wishes everyone a safe and joyous New Year’s Eve. With New Year’s celebrations and First Night festivities approaching, we remind all students and the general public about the dangers of scentless, colorless, and tasteless drugs, such as Rohypnol (commonly known as “roofies”), that can be secretly placed in beverages. Other substances often used in similar scenarios include GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyric acid) and Ketamine. These drugs can cause symptoms such as disorientation, confusion, temporary paralysis, unconsciousness, and more—leaving victims vulnerable to harm.
To help ensure your safety during celebrations, we encourage you to follow these precautions and look out for one another:
- Always have your drink served directly by a bartender or server. Avoid accepting drinks from people you do not know or trust.
- Keep your drink in sight at all times. Never leave it unattended.
- If you need to leave your table, take your drink with you—even to the restroom.
- Cover your drink when you are not actively drinking. Many innovative products are available to help you safeguard your beverage.
- Consider using drink-testing tools such as test strips or nail polish that can detect the presence of drugs.
- Seek immediate assistance if you feel dizzy, nauseous, light-headed, or otherwise unwell.
- Watch for unusual behavior in friends and acquaintances, and be cautious of strangers attempting to separate individuals from their group.
- If you see someone who appears distressed, wandering alone late at night, or dressed inappropriately for the weather, contact the police immediately.
The Boston Police Department urges anyone who believes they have been the victim of drink spiking or other criminal behavior to report the incident without delay. Let’s work together to make this New Year’s Eve celebration safe and enjoyable for all.