DRUG FACILITATED SEXUAL ASSAULT

Predatory drugs are substances used to facilitate sexual assault by
rendering victims defenceless. It is important to note that alcohol is the
number one substance used in drug-facilitated sexual assault.

Drugs like GHB, Ketamine, Rohypnol and ecstasy can be used as a weapon in
sexual assault crimes.

When they are hidden in a drink, they may be completely undetectable. These
drugs are often powerful and dangerous. They can seriously harm or even
kill you.

To reduce the risk of drug-facilitated sexual assault:

Watch your drink

Don't leave beverages unattended. If you realize that your drink has been
left unattended, discard it.

Don't share or exchange drinks with anyone.

When at a bar or club, only accept drinks from the bartender or waitress.

When at parties, do not accept open containers or drinks from anyone

Don't take a drink from a punch bowl.

Don't accept drinks, including soda or water, from

someone you don't know well and trust.

Don't drink anything that has an unusual taste or appearance (for example,
a salty taste).

Watch your friends

Always go to parties and bars with friends. Perpetrators are less likely to
assault someone if they know that their potential victim is with a group of
people who are watching out for him/her.

Appoint a designated sober person when you go to parties, clubs or bars and
have a plan to check up on each other.

If one of your friends becomes very ill, appears very intoxicated or gets
very sick, passes out, has difficulty waking, appears to have trouble
breathing, or is behaving in an unusual manner after drinking just one
beverage - take appropriate steps to ensure your friend's safety. Take them
to the nearest hospital and call 911.

If you think you have been drugged and or raped, get to a safe place and
call the RCMP or 9-1-1.

In upcoming columns: information on the drugs used in sexual assault.