Across Canada and North America, there is a growing trend for sexual predators to use date rape or club drugs to obtain sex from an unsuspecting victim.

Rohypnol, GHB, and Ketamine are date rape drugs that can be used to assault victims at clubs, house parties, bars, and on dates. These drugs are easily dissolved in any sort of liquid, including alcoholic drinks, soft drinks, and juices. Often these substances do not alter the taste, smell, or colour of the drink. Date rape drugs cause dizziness, blackouts, sleepiness, forgetfulness, immobility, increased intoxication and, depending on the dose, may even cause coma or death.

The club drugs, Ecstasy and Methamphetamines, are no less dangerous. While both Ecstasy and Methamphetamines can create a sense of euphoria, these drugs have serious negative side effects. Ecstasy can cause increased blood pressure, blurred vision, paranoia, depression, memory impairment, sleep disturbances, and confusion. Methamphetamines can cause dizziness, hallucinations, increased heart rate and blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, death or can induce violent behaviour. Mixing any club or date rape drug with other substances, including alcohol, can cause dangerous drug interactions.

Date rape drugs can be given to a person without their knowledge. To protect ones self from these date rape drugs, individuals should never drink from someone else’s drink. Don’t leave your drink unattended. Watch out for yourself and your friends.

If you feel that you or your child has been a victim of a date rape, please telephone the Port Moody Police Department at 604-461-3456.