Wired Magazine posted an article today that I want to recommend to all my female readers, particularly those who hang out in Memphis’ nightclub scene: Check Your Drink for Roofies.
In my 10 years Downtown, I’ve known two women personally who believe they had been “roofied,” and have heard of a third case. To “roofie” someone means to add a drug to their drink, causing them to lose decision-making abilities and often consciousness within a short period of time. Victims also experience a sense of amnesia upon awakening. The most common drugs of this type include Rohypnol, GHB and ketamine. They are collectively known as the “date rape drugs” because they are used by predators to sexually assault victims. I highly recommend you click through and read the entire article, but here are a few key points:
– Since 1999, an ingredient has been added to Rohypnol to turn blue any liquid to which it is added. However, it can still be disguised in blue drinks. Therefore, be wary if a total stranger tries to buy you a Walk-Me-Down or a drink of similar color.
– The best way to avoid being roofied is to make it impossible for someone to slip substances in your drink. The article lists several “toppers” for cups and bottles.
– There are also items sold that you can use to test for the presence of date-rape drugs. These are in forms such as coasters, straws, and lipstick that can be kept in your purse and pulled out without arousing suspicion.
Fortunately my two friends who had this unpleasant experience were taken care of by friends and got home safely. I hope this article helps keep you safe too.
One final note: I hope those reading won’t take this as a sign that Downtown Memphis is unsafe. Any large city with a vibrant nightlife scene is going to have this happen from time to time. I’d be willing to bet that it happens a lot less frequently here than, say, New Orleans, Atlanta, or Miami.
Be safe everyone. Feel free to forward to anyone whom you think this would help.