Pubdate: Wed, 25 May 2005 Source: Bracebridge Examiner (CN ON) Copyright: 2005 The Bracebridge Examiner Ltd. Contact: http://www.bracebridgeexaminer.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2354 Author: Amanda Dyer Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mdma.htm (Ecstasy) DATE RAPE DRUG USE ON THE RISE It is all just fun until someone gets hurt. As Muskoka's population begins to swell in anticipation of another party season, Muskoka-Parry Sound Sexual Assault Services is reminding young people to play safe. Jodi Golding, Muskoka coordinator for MPSSAS, warns excessive alcohol consumption and the relaxed atmosphere can lead women to let their guard down, making them particularly vulnerable to sexual assault. "The huge increase in young vacationers in the area in summer tends to increase the incidence of date rape," she said. According to Golding, the use of date rape drugs has been on a steady rise over the past six years. Although Rohypnol, with such street names as Roofies or Roachies, often gets the most attention as an inhibiting substance, she said Ecstasy is a significant problem in the area. The drug can be put into drinks in the same way as Rohypnol, but Golding indicated more often the issue in her experience is that Ecstasy was ingested voluntarily. With judgment impaired under the influence of Ecstasy, a woman is vulnerable to unwanted sexual contact. "It certainly debilitates," she said. "Women need to be aware how it leaves them open and men need to know that it hinders the woman's ability to give consent." Two years ago, MPSSAS conducted a project that targeted bars in Muskoka, distributing coasters, condoms and information aimed at raising awareness among both sexes about date rape and sexual assault. At the beginning of this initiative date rape cases represented 40 per cent of Golding's caseload, but by the end they had dropped to 25 per cent. Although this is still a significant proportion, she said it points to the effectiveness of getting information out to people. "The message is out there that our organization gives options," she explained. "Our job is not to do the investigation, but to help support." In recognition of the particular barriers to reaching young people, MPSSAS has about 75 students across Parry Sound and Muskoka trained as peer counsellors. "Youth tell each other before they go to parents, teachers or police," Golding said. "These students are not there to fix the problem, but to have good information as to where to go and what to do." Of course, services, staff, training and materials cost money. On May 27 in Bracebridge, and May 28 in Gravenhurst and Huntsville, MPSSAS will be conducting Tag Days to raise funds for its drop-in and prevention programs. Take action The University of Toronto, Faculty of Nursing and the Ontario Network of Sexual Assault Care and Treatment Centres offer the following tips for reducing the risk of being drugged and sexually assaulted. - Don't leave beverages unattended at parties or bars. - Don't take beverages from someone you don't know well and trust. - Only accepts drinks from a server at a bar or club. - Don't accept open-container drinks from anyone at parties. - Watch out for friends and ask them to watch out for you anyone extremely intoxicated after consuming only a small amount of alcohol may be in danger. -If you want or need help or advice, Muskoka-Parry Sound Sexual Assault Services conducts a 24 hours a day, 7 days a week help line: 1-800-461-2929.