Date rape has become an epidemic on college campuses across the nation. West Chester had two reported rapes in 2000 and another two in 2001. A survey conducted by Central Michigan University found that of all college women, 25 percent are victims of either rape or attempted rape. The majority of rapes occur among acquaintances and many are successful due to the use of date rape drugs. It is important for every young woman to know what she is up against by having an understanding of the kinds of drugs used and how to protect herself against rape.The term “date rape drug” is used most widely for the drugs Rohypnol, Gamma Hydroxy Butyrate and Ketamine Hydochloride. These drugs are effective because they are colorless, odorless and tasteless; leaving young women unaware that they have been given something. These drugs can knock someone out and leave them with little memory of what took place. The drugs are easily slipped into food and drink and are quick acting.
Due to the effects of these “date-rape drugs” a victim is often unsure of her condition, having foggy or vague memories of what took place. These drugs do not only act quickly, but also leave quickly. Within 72 hours of being administered, the drug is gone from the body without a trace. Drug screens and blood tests do not routinely detect traces of such drugs, unless they are being looked for specifically. This is why it is vital for a woman, if she has any suspicion that something may have happened to her, to go straight to the hospital to be tested for such drugs.
Every woman should know that the law states that if you have engaged in sexual intercourse but cannot remember doing it or offering your consent you have been raped, whether or not you have been drugged. Signs that you have been sexually assaulted include: soreness and bruising of the genital or anal area, bruising on the thighs, wrists, or forearms, or defensive wounds. Victims could also have recollections of hallucinations or feel hung-over after very little alcohol. The only way to be certain that date rape drugs have been administered is through medical tests.
It is necessary to be on your guard when at parties or bars. One must never accept an open drink from strangers or those who seem untrustworthy. This includes acquaintances who you are not very familiar with. You should always get your drinks directly from the bartender at a bar or club, never taking your eyes off your order. It is simply not safe to trust a waitress or an acquaintance to bring you a drink.
When at a party, only take closed drinks, or those that come in bottles or cans. You should also never drink from open sources like punch bowls or pitchers. Awareness is the most important tool in protection. Be aware of your surroundings and never go to a bar or a party alone. You are less likely to be targeted if you are with other people that you trust. Keep an eye out for your friends and have them do the same for you. If a friend seems overly intoxicated in proportion to what they have consumed make sure to get them and yourself out of the club or party and do not go back.
For those who feel like these tips are not enough protection there is a new option. Recently approved for use in North America, the “Drink Safe Technology” is a package of test strips or coasters that change color if a date rape drug is present. The tests are simple, effective, and inexpensive. They are small and fit in purses or pockets and are ideal for quick and discreet testing, just to be sure. For more information about the new testing you can visit the Web site, www.drinksafetech.com.
Most importantly to know, the above-listed drugs are not the only substances being used to assist in rapes. Date rape drugs include anything that can impair judgment. Alcohol, marijuana, street drugs and club drugs like ecstasy can all be considered date rape drugs that are easily accessible. You should also be aware that even over-the-counter sleeping aids and cold drug antihistamines can be used. All men and women should be aware of the dangers of date-rape drugs and take active steps to protect loved ones and themselves against becoming statistics.
Every woman is a possible victim and rape has nothing to do with attractiveness. Rapists prey on vulnerable targets and the motivation for rape is power. They are not hindered by pleading or crying. No woman should ever blame herself for rape as it is the sickness of the assailant that drives him.
Any woman who thinks she may have been raped should go to the hospital immediately before showering so that rape kits can be run.