NASHVILLE, Tenn. — In an effort to combat the rising concerns over drink tampering and sexual assault in Nashville’s nightlife scene, Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery has launched an innovative initiative aimed at improving the safety of patrons in downtown bars and restaurants.
The distillery has ordered thousands of drink covers, designed to serve as a preventative measure against drink spiking. The covers, which resemble scrunchies, can be worn on a wrist and used to secure drinks from tampering. Erica Dahlgren, the senior hospitality manager at Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery, demonstrated the product, noting that it provides an easy, discreet way for bar-goers to protect their beverages while enjoying their night out.
The idea to distribute the drink covers came after the distillery team kept a close eye on local news reports of incidents of drink tampering in the area. Dahlgren explained that the company’s brand manager organized the initiative as part of a broader effort to ensure safety for customers visiting the distillery and the bustling Lower Broadway district.
“We wanted to provide a simple, practical solution for people who are out enjoying themselves, giving them a tool they can use to help protect themselves,” Dahlgren said.
In just two weeks, the distillery was able to purchase a few thousand of the covers, which will be distributed for free at the distillery and on Lower Broadway. A promotional video was also produced to educate the public on the importance of drink safety and encourage a culture of awareness.
The initiative comes in response to concerning statistics from the Sexual Assault Center in Nashville, which reports that 20% of sexual assaults begin with the victim’s drink being drugged. The center emphasizes that incidents like these can happen to anyone, anywhere, and at any time.
Lorraine McGuire, vice president of community relations for the Sexual Assault Center, highlighted the importance of shifting the cultural narrative surrounding sexual assault. “We need to stop questioning the victims and start focusing on holding perpetrators accountable,” McGuire said. “When you see something, you need to say something.”
Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery will begin distributing the drink covers on Wednesday evening in the hopes of raising awareness and fostering a safer nightlife environment. Depending on the public’s response, the distillery will determine whether to order additional covers for wider distribution.
The Sexual Assault Center has also encouraged those who need support to reach out to their 24-hour crisis and support line, available at 1-866-811-RISE (7473).
By taking this simple yet impactful step, Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery is not only helping to protect individuals but also leading the way for other local businesses to consider similar measures in the ongoing fight against drink tampering and sexual assault in Nashville’s vibrant nightlife.
