Slug & Lettuce in Weymouth to give out free anti-spiking drinks covers
Door security checks will also take place
A Weymouth pub is stepping up safety measures to tackle drink spiking.
The Slug & Lettice in St Thomas Street are introducing security checks on the door and will soon give out free protective drink top covers for glasses.
The measures are being brought in as a response to concerns over a spate of recent drink spiking incidents in Weymouth.
Dorset Police say there have been 31 reported cases of people having their drink spiked in the last year in Dorset - that doesn't relate to injections.
Slug & Lettuce have employed a Guest Support representative, who will wear a neon armband, for customers to speak to. That's whether they have any concerns, questions of feel vulnerable.
Customers are also urged to tell the member of staff if they see anything suspicious or have concerns their drink has been tampered with.
A spokesperson for Slug and Lettuce told Greatest Hits Radio Dorset: “The safety of our guests and our team, has always been, and remains, our number one priority and we continually review our safety and security procedures to ensure our customers and staff remain safe. We treat all allegations of spiking seriously and ask customers to bring this to our attention immediately should they have concerns their drinks have been tampered with.
“We are aware there is increasing concern over alleged increases in spiking in clubs and bars, and have therefore enhanced our measures and have employed Guest Support to assist any guests that are feeling vulnerable or unwell. These team members are easily identifiable, as they wear a neon armband. We have enhanced security checks on our door and we will soon be introducing free drink protectors. We ask guests remain vigilant and report any unusual or suspicious behaviour to one of our team immediately."
Dorset Police advice to stay safe:
The Force would urge people to take the following steps to help prevent you or your friends from becoming a victim:
- Never leave your drink unattended
- Don't accept a drink from someone you don't know
- Keep an eye on your friends' drinks
- stay away from situations that you don't feel comfortable with
- If someone appears very intoxicated do not leave them unattended or with a stranger, make sure they are safe
- Let someone know where you are and what time you expect to be home, especially if you're going on a date with someone you don't know
- Don't give out too much information to someone you've just met, such as your address
- It's important to remember that if you've already been drinking, it may make you less aware of any danger.
If your drink has been spiked you may not be able to see, smell or taste any difference. However, symptoms you may experience could include feeling drowsy, confused and finding it difficult to speak or move, feeling drunker than you should and not remembering what you have done.
Report any cases of suspected drink spiking to the police as soon as you can.