5 Ways To Tell Your Drink Was Tampered With
Friends having drinks.
Austin is recognized as the top city in America and the fifth worldwide for nightlife, offering endless fun and excitement. However, it's crucial to stay safe during a night out. Here are five ways to detect if your drink has been spiked or tampered with:
Sinking Ice: Sinking ice in a drink can be a sign that it has been spiked because the density of the liquid has increased.
Color Changes: A noticeable change in your drink’s color could indicate the presence of a foreign substance.
Cloudiness: A cloudy appearance, especially in a clear drink, is a red flag.
Unusual Smell: If your drink smells off or different, it’s best not to consume it.
Fizzing or Bubbles: Unexpected fizzing or bubbles in a non-carbonated drink may be a sign of spiking.
In some cases, spiked substances can be odorless and colorless, making them harder to detect. Many people describe the symptoms as an "out-of-body" experience, typically occurring within 15 minutes. If your drink has been spiked, you may experience:
Blurred vision
Sudden overheating
Chattering teeth
Nausea
Paranoia
If you start feeling any of these symptoms, it's important to immediately seek help from a friend or a staff member. Remember, you can discreetly ask for help by ordering an "Angel Shot" at many establishments. The effects of spiking drugs can be rapid and severe, leaving you disoriented, defenseless, and with no memory of events—so don’t hesitate to act.
To help protect yourself, consider using these resources:
Drink Test Strips: Available for free at some Austin bars through the city’s "Sip Safely" program, these strips can help you identify if your drink has been tampered with. Look up if your favorite bars offer this service!
Drink Covers: These handy covers, often designed as keychains or scrunchies, fit over your drink with a small hole for a straw, providing extra protection.
Staying vigilant and using these tools can help ensure your night out remains safe and enjoyable!
