Date-rape drugs

Rape and assault are a sad reality in our culture today.

And it can happen to anyone.

Even you.

When secretly slipped into a beverage of any type, sedating substances can leave anyone vulnerable to sexual assault. You may not be able to see it, smell it or taste it.

And you don't have to be at a bar or club. It could happen in any social setting.

The tragic fact is that the reasons for rape really have nothing to do with you.

It happens only because there are people who wish to harm others and to have power and control over them.

But there are some things that you can do to help reduce your risk.

  • Always keep your beverage in sight at all times.
  • At a bar or club, accept drinks only from the bartender or server.
  • At social gatherings and parties, don't accept open-container drinks from anyone!
  • Don't take drugs of any kind. The effects of these sedating drugs can be lethal as they suppress your ability to breathe. Be aware that the effects of many drugs are compounded with the consumption ofalcohol.
  • Be aware that some "date rape" drugs, like GHB, or Gamma-hydroxybutyrate are being"home made" using the same caustic chemicals that are present in strong household cleaners. Taking these drugs mixtures, knowingly or unknowingly can have potentially lethal consequences.
  • If you experience dizziness, extreme drowsiness, or other sudden and unexplained symptoms, call someone you know and trust for help, or go to a hospital emergency room immediately. If possible try to retain a sample of the beverage for testing.
  • If you think you've been sexually assaulted, call the Rape Crisis Hotline (in the Oswego area the number is 315.342.1600) or call the police immediately.
  • Don't be afraid to reach out for help. There are tests to prove you've been drugged, and a federal law that can help put the rapist in prison. Reporting quickly is vital.
  • So PLEASE, help reduce your risk............ WATCH YOUR DRINK!

This message is provided by the Oswego County District Attorney's Date-Rape Drug Committee a sub-committee of the Child Abuse Task Force, The Oswego County Drug Task Force, local Law Enforcement, SUNY Oswego and University Police, in collaboration with Hoffmann-La Roche.