To the already abundant list of things parents of teenagers already have to worry about – which includes cyber-bullying, drugs, excessive alcohol consumption, risk-taking and excursions into the darker corners of the internet – can be added a new source of concern.

Drink spiking.

They are two words that will send a shiver down the spine of parents in Bathurst.

And as today’s front page article makes clear, drink spiking is not just something that might happen when your teen is off in the big smoke for a weekend.

Unfortunately, it’s happening here.

As our article details, a local teenager was found semi-conscious in a toilet at a local hotel recently.

The young girl’s friends, having gone looking for her, found her unable to stand unassisted.

Although blood tests were not taken at Bathurst Base Hospital, as this practice is not part of hospital protocol, the girl’s father, well-known Western Advocate Windradyne Whisperer columnist Lachlan Sullivan, is adamant her condition was not alcohol-related.

The positive to come out of this event is that it is a reminder to local youth to look after your mates when you are out on the town.

The chances of having your drink spiked may be low, but there is no harm in being cautious, and no harm in keeping an eye out for each other when you are out at the pub as a group.

It’s good for you and it’s good for your parents, who really don’t need anything more to worry about.