Festival season is upon us, and while it’s a time for music, fun, and camaraderie, there’s a growing concern that festival-goers need to be aware of: vape spiking.
According to The Metropolitan Police, reports of spiked vapes surged by 13% in 2023, with electronic cigarettes increasingly being laced with harmful substances such as THC and Spice.
With the rise in vape spiking incidents, it’s crucial for festival attendees to be vigilant and informed about the risks and precautions.
Avoid Sharing Vapes: Your Safety First
The number one rule to ensure your safety while vaping at festivals is simple: avoid sharing vapes.
Sharing might seem harmless, but it’s a risky game when you have no control over what’s inside someone else’s device.
THC and Spice are the primary culprits, but more than 100 different drugs have been detected in spiked vapes.
Reusable e-cigarettes are particularly susceptible as they can be manually filled with any liquid. Therefore, to stay safe, stick to your own vape.
Inspect Your Vape Regularly
Even if your vape has been with you all the time, or you just left it in your tent, it’s essential to inspect it before using it again.
For reusable vapes, check if the top has been removed or if the liquid seems tampered with. It’s also a good idea to carry a testing kit with you.
These kits can help you detect any suspicious substances and ensure your vape hasn’t been compromised.
Recognise the Signs of Being Spiked
Knowing the symptoms of being spiked can be lifesaving. Common indicators include shortness of breath, nausea, coughing, and fatigue.
If you experience any of these symptoms or suspect you’ve been spiked, seek medical help immediately.
Most festivals have designated first aid areas; familiarize yourself with their locations and remember that security personnel are always available to assist.
Properly Dispose of Your Vape
Once you’re done with your vape, proper disposal is key. Many festivals provide specific guidelines on recycling vapes.
Household waste and recycling centres typically have bins for electricals and batteries. If you can safely remove the battery from your vape, recycle it separately. If not, the entire vape can usually be disposed of in these bins.
The experts at HAYPP stress the importance of awareness and safety in the face of the growing vape spiking issue.
They note: “It is vital to be aware of the increasing risk of vape spiking and to know how to avoid it.
With the growing popularity of vaping, people need to know how to identify if a vape has been tampered with, and what to do if you believe you’ve been spiked.
This isn’t to say your entire festival experience should be overshadowed by the looming fear of spiking, rather, it’s about generating awareness for a growing issue and taking the steps to avoid it to cultivate a happier, and safer, vaping community.”
As you gear up for the festival season, keep these tips in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
By not sharing your vape, inspecting it regularly, recognising the signs of being spiked, and disposing of your device properly, you can protect yourself and others.
Stay informed, stay safe, and enjoy the music and memories without the worry of vape spiking.