ALL-NIGHT CLUBS CAN POSE SAFETY RISKS, WARN POLICE

Even though all-night dance parties aren't held in Milton, party goers must
be aware of the potential safety risks associated with them.

"One of the problems is the labeling of raves," said Halton Regional Police
Superintendent Dan Okuloski.

"Burlington has a number of night clubs that play that type of music
(trance) and are darkly lit."

Young adults from Milton frequent all-night clubs in Toronto and
surrounding areas and must be conscience of a number of health and safety
risks, he said.

"Watch out for illegal drugs. Sexual assaults are common because of the
poor lighting. Dehydration is also a problem."

Supt. Okuloski said awareness and education of all night parties to parents
and party goers must be addressed.

"People will make bad choices. A lot of parents think since alcohol isn't
involved it's (parties) a safe place. Sometimes parents don't know where
their kids are going. They'll say they're staying at a friend's house and
then stay out all night."

Mixing drugs such as speed, ecstasy (MDMA) and rohypnol -- the "date rape"
drug -- can have devastating consequences, Supt. Okuloski said.

"Ecstasy is the trend at the moment (for raves). We have to jump on the
band wagon and educate the public. A 20, 21 year old should know what's
going on. If you're going to go to one of these parties, know how to deal
with situations. That's the message we're trying to get across."

If people decide to attend all-night parties, make sure to drink plenty of
water and stay with a trusted friend at all times, he said.

"Parents should also be on the lookout to see if their kids are wearing
(baby) soothers around their necks. People wear soothers when they take
ecstasy because you grind your teeth when you're on that drug. It's
something to look out for."