Campaign to keep people safe at bar with 'Angel Shot' adopted in Cincinnati

CINCINNATI (WKRC) - Bars and restaurants around the world are catching on to a trend aiming at aiding women who fear they’re in or may be put in danger.

It’s called an “Angel Shot,” and dependingon how the shot is ordered: neat, with a lime, etc. it changes what actions staff will take to protect you.

The actions are as discreet as a quick walk by a bar/restaurant employee to your car or cab, or as visual as calling thepolice.

“It’s just really nice to know that you can say something to someone who is sober behind the bar and they’ll be able to take care of you if need it,” said Laura Koven.

Koven is a bartender at Queen City Radio (QCR) located at 12th and Central Parkway. Koven says staff will soon be attending a mandatory meeting about the "Angel Shot" and how to respond to a patron.

“It makes me feel good as a woman and makes me feel safe working here until three in the morning pouring drinks,” said Koven. “I hope our patrons also feel safe that we have their back and will take care of them if they need anything.”

The ideais spreading around the world and trending on social media as people share the word about what establishments practice the act. Koven says they’ll soon be putting up signs in the women’s restaurant that will explain what to say and what will happen when the “Angel Shot,” is ordered. Koven says while spreading the word of the service is good, QCR is considering changing up the name of it because it’s becoming popular.

In the time of online dating and app related meet ups, Koven believes offering this is something of great need in Cincinnati.

“You want a discreet way out of the situation that won't cause a fuss, that won't get physical, that you won't have someone following you home at night. If you can do it in a discreet way where you can just slip out and the other person doesn't have any clue then that's ideal,” said Koven.

Queen City Radio is also working the organization Women Helping Women to learn more about what they can do as a bar to make it a safe and welcoming place for women.