Safe carnival time: How to protect yourself from knockout drops!

Safe carnival time: How to protect yourself from knockout drops!

On March 30, 2025, representatives of the carnival clubs from the Borken district met with the specialist department for child and youth promotion and the specialist office for the compensation for the district administration. The aim of this exchange meeting was to review the carnival session 2024/25 and to reflect on the results of the joint efforts. The motto was "showing together flag", a commitment that has come into focus since 2017 the protection of minors and moderate alcohol consumption. The support of the Department for Child and Youth Promotion of the Borken district youth welfare office and the specialist office for addiction prevention plays a crucial role in this.

The meeting took place in the district house and revealed a positive record of the past session. Nevertheless, the introduction of a new poster with the inscription "Do not let yourself be k.o. drops" was presented. This initiative aims to sensitize the public to the dangers of knockout drops and to provide information about self-protection. In addition, the club representatives were provided with information about current consumer trends such as laughing gas and vapes. Fortunately, it was found that no striking presence of addictive drugs was observed during the carnival parades.

focus on youth protection

The focus on "youth protection and alcohol" is to be further reinforced in the upcoming session. A planned workshop in October 2023 for trainers from the dance guard will devote themselves to the topics of "protect children" and "strengthen children". As reported Wochenpost.de , the next meeting will be targeted to prepare the new carnival session for October 2025. The exchange and networking of the carnival clubs were considered essential for new ideas and projects.

In the lively carnival period, which reached its peak, celebrating people are also exposed to dangers. The secret income of knockout drops, often in the form of gammabutyrolactone (GBL) or gammahydroxy buttery acid (GHB). In 2022, 50 crimes in connection with knockout drops were registered in Saxony. Dark field analyzes show that many affected people from shame or inhibitions do not file a complaint, which exacerbates the situation. These drops work by slowing down the activities of the brain and the nervous system, which can lead to symptoms such as euphoria, dizziness and possibly also unconsciousness within 10 to 20 minutes.

prevention measures and safety instructions

In order to reduce the identified risks, the police pass on behavioral information to the celebrants. This includes taking responsibility for friends and paying attention to each other. Drinks should always be opened in the presence of those who want to consume them and never remain unattended. If you suspect knockout drops, the police advise you to immediately alert the police under 110 and the emergency services under 112. With sexual coercion, it is important not to destroy evidence and keep your own clothes.

The vulnerable situation during and after parties requires everyone's prudent response. It is of great importance to show a safe demeanor and quick action to prevent physical arguments and harassment. In addition, it is advisable to celebrate in groups and to take care of each other to get home safely. mimikama provides further information on the hazard for those affected.

Overall, the initiative of the carnival clubs shows under the motto "Together Flag" that the commitment to youth protection and a responsible handling of alcohol will continue to be a priority in the future. However, the challenge of protecting celebrating people from the dangers of the carnival remains and requires continuous attention.