DRINK spiking is being combated with special anti-tamper caps.
Special constables in Cheshire West are offering drinkers the bottle tops on the run-up to Christmas.
Pete Goring, Cheshire Constabulary’s licensing enforcement officer, says there is no forensic proof bottles of alcohol are being tampered with but the fear of ‘drink spiking’ is high.
He said: “We want people to enjoy their nights out on the approach to Christmas and we want to make sure everyone stays safe.”
Special constables play a major part in providing extra ArcAngel police patrols on the streets of Ellesmere Port as people enjoy a night out. Chester Crime Prevention Panel has financed the initiative through Crimebeat.
Ann Charlton the panel’s chairman, said: “Although the police have no evidence to show that drinks are being spiked, the fear of having a ‘date rape’ drug sneaked into a drink is high.
“Young people in our pubs and clubs will walk around with their thumb in the neck of a bottle to stop anyone interfering with the contents. The anti- tamper tops means drinks can be left on a table and people can enjoy their night out without worrying about their drink being spiked.”
Drinkers can do a lot to make sure they have a safe night out, especially this time of year:
If you are out in a group have one person designated as the driver, with that person having soft drinks or water. If you haven’t got a driver, pre book a taxi to make sure you get home safely.
Pace your drinking and have water or soft drinks in between alcoholic ones.
The combination of alcohol and freezing weather can be a lethal combination. Take a warm layer of clothing and pre-book your ride home.
