GLASGOW bars and nightclubs have introduced a new set of security measures to keep customers safe in a bid to tackle alleged spiking.

Well-known Sauchiehall Street establishment Firewater took to social media on Wednesday evening to announce the launch of their new campaign 'My Firewater, My Safety’.

The venue will introduce a new search policy, increased security staff, internal staff awareness, and a specific job role which is intended on combatting potential spiking.

 

READ MORE: Nightclub 'injection' spiking incidents probed by police across Scotland

A statement said: “The details of our internal campaign are as follows: An introduction of search policy will ensure patrons entering the club have been subjected to full search before entry.

“An introduction of a safety Marshall, which is a role created to exclusively combat potential spiking, and a sharp increase in security staff across all nights.

“An internal poster campaign, with prompts and reminders of ‘what-to-do’ if every feeling unsafe within Firewater, and general increased staff awareness and inter-communication for patrons in potential danger.

“Since 2001, one of our fundamental company objectives has been to create a safe environment, free of danger, intimidation, and harassment. We assure you, we are doing everything and more to make your night out as safe and fun as possible.”

The announcement follows the confirmation by Police Scotland regarding an investigation into claims of spiking incidents involving injections in nightclubs across the country.

A force spokesperson said: "We are aware of posts circulating on social media about spiking incidents involving injections in Scotland.

"Officers are carrying out enquiries, and a small number of reports from the Edinburgh, Dundee and Glasgow areas are being investigated.

"These do not appear to be linked.

"We take all reports seriously and we would encourage anyone who believes they have been a victim of spiking in any form to contact Police via 101.”

The Herald:

Elsewhere on Sauchiehall Street, Nice N Sleazy have also stepped up security protocols after an alleged spiking, which is thought to have taken place at the venue last Thursday.

The Glasgow Times reports that the club is urging those who believe they might be a victim of the crime to report the matter urgently to staff who can offer assistance. 

A spokesperson for the venue said: "We are very concerned about the incident which came to light on social media this week. 

"Unfortunately, the incident was not reported to our staff on the night and we were not able to offer support and help. We hope that anyone who might be a victim of these crimes in the future will communicate all concerns they have to our staff should anything occur inside or indeed outside our venue.

"We will give the best support we can to any individual in distress, but would also urge any victim subjected to attacks of this kind to report it immediately to the police for investigation. 

"It is also crucial to report to NHS services as soon as possible so that they can be properly treated for substance effects and given blood screenings for any viruses."

Informational signage around the premises has also been updated while bouncers vow to remain vigilant during bag searches upon entry.

The spokesperson added: "We have updated signage throughout the premises in regards to spiking and the processes that should be followed if someone is thought to have been spiked. We have implemented random body searches to our entrance policy and continue to be vigilant with bag searches and ensuring no drinks are left unattended. 

"We are in contact with multiple organisations over this issue including Police Scotland, the Night Time Industry Association (NTIA) , the Scottish Music Industry Association and the Music Venue Trust as well as Good Night Out.

"We have excellent CCTV cameras in operation throughout the premises and as such, Police Scotland and ourselves would urge anyone connected with said incident to step forward. 

"We can use any information gained to aid in the investigation and catch the assailant."

The Herald:

Donald MacLeod, who is the convener for Glasgow's Licensing Forum, echoed the club's calls and urged revellers to report a suspected spiking urgently to members of staff on nights out.

The nightclub owner said: "If you suspect that you or any of your friends have been spiked, we want to be the first people to know about it. The sooner we know something is going on, the sooner we can provide help and get these people off the streets – there is a maximum 10-year prison sentence for this offense. 

"We take this very seriously – it is a real threat to our customers, our staff and our livelihoods. We want our venues to be as safe as they possibly can be for our nightclubbers. 

“The only way we can tackle this is by standing together, reporting it and talking about it. The venue is there to help you. We want to catch these people who are doing this to our customers for whatever reason.”