Crimestoppers is urging the public to report information about drink and vape spiking anonymously as part of a new awareness campaign in the North East. Working alongside partners including Northumbria Police, the charity aims to prevent further harm by highlighting the signs of spiking, symptoms to watch for, and the serious impact on victims.
Spiking methods and dangers
Spiking can occur in various ways, including adding alcohol or drugs to someone's drink without their knowledge or tampering with a vape. Crimestoppers also warns about “doubling up,” where extra alcohol is added to a drink unbeknownst to the drinker. This method can be harder to detect but poses significant risks.
Acting quickly is crucial. Crimestoppers encourages anyone with information about where spiking is happening or who is involved to report it. All reports are 100% anonymous, and the charity does not ask for personal details. Information cannot be traced back to the reporter.
How to report
Reports can be submitted anonymously via Crimestoppers-uk.org or Fearless.org. The charity emphasizes that even partial information could help stop further harm.
Fleur Brown, North East Regional Manager for Crimestoppers, said: “Spiking can have a devastating impact on victims, leaving people feeling vulnerable and unsafe. We are asking anyone with information about where spiking is happening, or who may be involved, to tell us anonymously. You do not need to know everything, what you know could help stop further harm.”
Signs of spiking
Indicators that a drink may have been spiked include excessive bubbles, a foggy appearance, sinking ice, a change in colour, or an unexpectedly strong or different taste. For vapes, possible signs include unusual marks or scratches, mismatched parts, a removed pod, discoloured liquid, or off flavours.
Symptoms of spiking can include dizziness, confusion, vomiting, fatigue, memory loss, or feeling drunk very quickly on much less alcohol. If a vape has been tampered with, shortness of breath and coughing may occur.
What to do if spiked
If you or a friend may have been spiked, tell someone you trust, return the drink to the bar or stop using the vape, move to a safe place, seek help from staff or security, call an ambulance if needed, contact police, and get tested quickly as substances can leave the body within hours.
