Question

Date rape drugs are most commonly used to sexually assault a person. The drugs often have no color, smell, or taste and are easily added to drinks without the victim’s knowledge. These drugs usually cause a person to become helpless—they can hardly move and are not able to protect themselves from being hurt. People who have been given date rape drugs say they felt paralyzed or couldn’t see well, and had black-outs, problems talking, confusion, and dizziness. Date rape drugs can even cause death.

It’s hard to know whether a party, club, or concert you plan to go to will be dangerous. Drugs may not be at every party you go to, but you should still have a plan for keeping yourself and your friends safe no matter what.

Say "NO" to alcohol. Have water or soda instead.
Open your own drinks. . . .
Keep your drink with you at all times, even when you go to the bathroom.
–“What Is Rape and Date Rape?,” US Department of Health and Human Services

Based on this passage, which statements are true of date rape drugs? Check all that apply.

They cannot be avoided.
They cannot cause death.
They can cause blackouts.
They are not really dangerous.
They are commonly used at parties.
They can cause dizziness and confusion.
They are commonly used at clubs and concerts.

Answer 1

True:
- They can cause blackouts. (Passage: people reported black-outs.)
- They can cause dizziness and confusion. (Passage lists dizziness and confusion.)
- They are commonly used at parties. (Passage warns about parties and says drugs may be present.)
- They are commonly used at clubs and concerts. (Passage specifically mentions clubs and concerts as places to be cautious.)

False:
- They cannot be avoided. (Passage gives prevention tips — e.g., open your own drinks, keep them with you.)
- They cannot cause death. (False — passage says they can even cause death.)
- They are not really dangerous. (False — passage describes serious effects, including death.)