Warning over vape 'spiking' and as experts share tell-tale signs to look for

Experts have issued a warning over so-called vape spiking and shared the tell-tale signs to be aware of.

According to The Metropolitan Police, reports of spiked vapes increased by 13 per cent in 2023, with the electronic cigarettes being laced with substances including THC and spice. The number of allegations made to the force recorded 1,383, reports Independent.

To keep you safe from potential spiking incidents at festivals, the experts at HAYPP have shared some advice on how you can stay safe while vaping at large events such as festivals.

Experts at HAYPP said: “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.”

Avoid sharing

The experts’ number one tip for staying safe from spiking is to avoid sharing vapes at all cost. While you may know what is in your vape, you do not know what someone else has put in theirs. So if someone offers it to you, it’s best to decline and stick to your own vape.

This is especially relevant when it comes to sharing reusable e-cigarettes as they can be filled manually with any liquid, so you never know what someone else has put in. While the Met Police identified THC and spice as the main contributors, there have been over 100 different drugs identified in cases of vape spiking.

Inspecting your vape

Whether it’s been with you the whole time, or you left it in your tent, it is vital to look over your vape to ensure it hasn’t been tampered with. If you own a reusable vape, you can check the pod to see if the top has been removed, or if liquid has been added or discarded.

It’s also advisable to bring a testing kit with you in case you suspect your vape has been spiked. Organisations such as The Loop will be attending festivals across the country this summer to provide on-site testing.

Knowing if you have been spiked

If you’re concerned that you or a friend has been spiked, there are a number of signs to look out for. These include shortness of breath, nausea, coughing, or fatigue.

If you have any of these symptoms, or are just generally concerned that you may have been spiked, it’s advised to seek medical attention. Many festivals will have designated areas and tents for first aid.

Ahead of attending any festivals or large events, familiarise yourself with locations offering medical attention and first aid, and know that security is always around to assist you.

How to properly dispose of your vape

Once you have finished with your vape, some festivals have specific guidelines on how to properly dispose and recycle them. All household waste and recycling centres have bins for electricals and batteries, if you can safely remove the battery from your vape, recycle it separately. If you can’t, you should be able to just put the entire vape in one of these bins.