Q: My fifteen year old daughter attended a party over the summer where a girl is believed to have been drugged and sexually assaulted. My husband and I, along with several other parents are shocked, angry and wondering how to keep our daughters safe. I can’t imagine not letting her go to parties anymore (though I wish I could), but would like to give her some tips to keep safe. What do you know about date rape drugs and how can kids avoid them?
S.H. Burnaby, B.C.
Teresa and Saleema: We hope a report of the sexual assault was made and the girl was provided with professional counseling to help her heal from this despicable crime. Your shock, anger, and concern for your daughter’s safety are justified. Date rape is disturbingly common among teens. It is reported that 1 in 4 teenage girls have experienced a sexual assault. Equally as worrisome is the estimate that only 1 in 100 date rapes get reported.
The two date rape drugs most commonly used are Rohypnol (known as Roofies, Roach, or Rope) and GHB (known as liquid ecstasy, Grievous Bodily Harm, or Liquid G). Rohypnol is traditionally used as a sedative or for treating severe sleeping disorders. It is illegal to possess in Canada but sold on the streets for under $20. The drug is a small white tablet crushed into a white powder easily dissolved in liquid. When taken, it produces the effects of drowsiness, disorientation and dizziness within 20 to 30 minutes. Speech, motor skills and memory loss are affected for periods of time ranging from 4 to 10 hours, and loss of consciousness may occur if mixed with alcohol. GHB is a clear liquid, easily mixed into a drink and undetectable. Short term effects include nausea, dizziness, confusion, drowsiness or temporary amnesia. Believe it or not, the drug has been promoted on the internet promising teens aphrodisiac effects and an easy high. What they neglect to mention is the possibility of slipping into a coma or dying. Educate your daughter about the drugs so she knows what to keep an eye out for. As well, here are some safety rules everyone should follow at a party:
1. Do not accept drinks from strangers.
2. Never leave your drink unattended.
3. Drink only from unopened bottles or cans. Bring a sports bottle with you. They don’t have an open top and are less of a target.
4. Avoid punch bowls.
5. If your drink tastes odd or you notice a white powder on your glass – get rid of it. (Keep in mind, both drugs can be undetectable.)
6. Use a buddy system at the party. Designate a buddy and promise not to let each other out of sight.
7. Let someone know immediately if you start to feel sick or weird so they can take you to a hospital if necessary.