Make it a night to remember for the right reasons

28 May 2008. Police and partners are warning people of the dire consequences of drinking too much alcohol.

Milton Keynes Safety Partnership, including Milton Keynes Council, Thames Valley Police and Milton Keynes Primary Care Trust also want to help people stay safe on a night out.

As well as alcohol-related violence, there is evidence that the number of reported rapes and sexual assaults, in which alcohol appears to have been a significant factor, is increasing.

It is also a known fact that, when a person is intoxicated with alcohol and they become sexually active, they can often forget to use protection. This may result in an unwanted pregnancy or a sexually-transmitted disease.

Drinking too much can make you:

• overconfident
• reckless and impulsive
• aggressive

It can also blur your judgment and lead to you losing control.

Superintendent Gez Chiariello, Local Policing Commander, said: “Make sure you are sensible about how much you drink and that you know your limits. We want people of Milton Keynes to enjoy alcohol responsibly and not make a night out with friends or family result in an injury or being locked up in the cells.

“Stick with your friends at all times and never wonder off on your own. Make sure it is a night to remember for all the right reasons.”

Dr. Diane Gray, from Milton Keynes Primary Care Trust, said: “Keep your drink with you at all times. Don’t get so drunk that you can’t say no. Look out for your mates. Think. Be safe. No regrets.”

The multi-agency campaign Know Your Limits has been designed to give the public advice about safe drinking that can help stop you becoming a victim of crime or catching an STI or STD.