WITH New Year’s Eve just days away, Dorset Police is urging people heading out to celebrate to stay alert to the signs of spiking and report concerns as soon as possible.

Spiking is when alcohol or drugs are given to someone without their knowledge or consent, most commonly by adding substances to drinks, but it can also involve injections.

Police stress that it can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, sexuality or background, and that perpetrators may be strangers or people the victim knows.

Officers say spiking can be difficult to identify as symptoms often resemble the effects of alcohol.

Feeling suddenly unwell, dizzy, confused or far more intoxicated than expected can all be warning signs.

Anyone who starts to feel unwell on a night out is advised to speak to bar staff immediately as venues can help keep people safe and arrange support.

Dorset Police are also reminding people that spiking should always be reported, even if symptoms seem mild.

The sooner a report is made, the greater the chance of preserving evidence.

Reports can be made online or by calling 101, while 999 should be used in emergencies or if someone feels seriously unwell and needs urgent medical help.

Campaigner and influencer Sharon Gaffka has been working with the National Police Chiefs’ Council on a series of videos encouraging victims to come forward and explaining how to report spiking.

Police say there is no “right” way to feel after an incident and that support is available regardless of whether medical treatment is needed.

Officers also want people to report attempted spiking including drinks that suddenly smell, taste or look different, finding tablets or powder in a drink, seeing someone interfere with a drink or suspected attempts to inject drugs.

While police say the overall risk of spiking appears low, they acknowledge that many incidents go unreported, making it difficult to know the true scale of the problem.

As celebrations approach, they are urging people to look out for themselves and others, and to report concerns so action can be taken.