The Boston Police Department wishes everyone a safe and enjoyable New Year’s Eve. As New Year’s celebrations and First Night festivities approach, we want to remind students and the public to stay alert to the dangers of drink spiking. Some drugs used in these situations are scentless, colorless, and tasteless, including Rohypnol, commonly known as roofies, as well as GHB and ketamine. These substances can cause disorientation, confusion, temporary paralysis, or unconsciousness, leaving individuals vulnerable to harm.
To help keep yourself and others safe while celebrating, please keep the following tips in mind and look out for one another:
- Always have your drink served directly by a bartender or server and avoid accepting drinks from people you do not know or trust.
- Keep your drink with you at all times and never leave it unattended.
- If you step away from your table, take your drink with you, including to the restroom.
- Cover your drink when you are not actively drinking. There are products available that can help protect your beverage.
- Consider using drink testing tools, such as test strips or nail polish, that can detect the presence of drugs.
- Seek help immediately if you feel dizzy, nauseous, light headed, or otherwise unwell.
- Pay attention to friends and acquaintances and be cautious of anyone trying to separate someone from their group.
- If you see someone who appears distressed, wandering alone late at night, or dressed inappropriately for the weather, contact police right away.
The Boston Police Department encourages anyone who believes they may have been the victim of drink spiking or any other criminal behavior to report it immediately. By looking out for one another, we can help make New Year’s Eve safe and enjoyable for everyone.