Christmas party season sparks new push to tackle spiking in Lincolnshire
Crimestoppers has launched a new awareness campaign across Lincolnshire as the festive season gets underway, warning people to stay alert to the dangers of drink and vape spiking.
Social media messages are being rolled out in major towns including Spalding and Skegness, urging people to recognise the signs and report any suspicions anonymously.
The charity says spiking remains a serious criminal offence that can carry a sentence of up to ten years -and even small pieces of information from the public can help prevent someone being harmed.
Signs a drink may have been spiked include:
- Excessive bubbles
- A foggy or cloudy appearance
- Ice sinking unusually quickly
- A change in colour
- A drink tasting unexpectedly strong or different
Warning signs a vape may have been tampered with:
- Unusual marks or scratches
- Mismatched or loose parts
- Removed or altered pods
- Discoloured liquid
- Strange or ‘off’ flavours
Possible symptoms of spiking:
- Dizziness or confusion
- Vomiting
- Extreme fatigue
- Memory loss
- Feeling unusually drunk on very little alcohol
Crimestoppers says anyone who believes they or a friend have been spiked should tell someone they trust, stop using the drink or vape, move to a safe place, seek help from staff or security, and get tested quickly as substances leave the body within hours.
Lydia Patsalides, East Midlands Regional Manager for Crimestoppers, said: “Spiking is not a prank — it’s dangerous and it destroys lives. By reporting what you know, anonymously, you can help stop harm before it spreads.”
You can share information about suspected spiking 100% anonymously at crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling 0800 555 111.
Crimestoppers does not record calls, trace IP addresses, or require any personal details — your identity will always stay completely anonymous.