Drink Test Strips & Safe Signage in NOLA Bars
New Orleans is known for its vibrant nightlife, and the Mayor's Office of Nighttime Economy (ONE) is working to ensure that the Big Easy's bar scene remains a safe space for anyone enjoying a night out. The ONE has implemented a harm reduction initiative that distributes free drink test strips and safe signage to NOLA's most popular bars.
The program seeks to equip bars and bar-goers with the necessary tools to make New Orleans' nightlife safer, with high-traffic venues receiving priority. ONE is especially focused on distributing these tools to bars that are LGBTQ+ and women-centric.
What Does the Program Entail?
Participating bars will receive free drink test strips from Test My Drink, a company dedicated to preventing drink spiking among teenagers and adults. The strips test for GHB and Ketamine, two of the most common date rape drugs per the Office of Women's Health.
In addition to free drink test strips, bars will receive front- and back-of-house signage that promotes awareness about drink spiking. All participants will receive direct support from ONE and will undergo continuous follow-ups on the program's efficiency.
Safety Opportunities from ONE
ONE partners with other safety organizations to sponsor free trainings for nightlife venues. Frequent ONE collaborator City of New Orleans Health Department offers free bystander training, including classes for overdose prevention or first aid.
ONE is collaborating with the SAFE Bar Network to offer de-escalation and bystander intervention training for bar staff, enabling them to address safety concerns more effectively.
"Our job is to support both the businesses who power our nightlife and the people who enjoy it," ONE Policy Manager Julia Heath said in a press release. "This initiative is about removing barriers—no one should stay home because they're worried about safety."
A Safe Night in the Big Easy
With its newest initiative, ONE aims to make safety a more prominent part of New Orleans' bar culture. Venues and bars interested in taking part in the program can contact the office via Instagram or email.
