AN innovative crime prevention magazine has been launched in Suffolk today aimed at making women think twice about their actions on a night out.The aptly named Safe! magazine has been created to continue Suffolk police's quirky approach to publicity which began with last year's Lock Em' Inn campaign.

AN innovative crime prevention magazine has been launched in Suffolk today aimed at making women think twice about their actions on a night out.

The aptly named Safe! magazine has been created to continue Suffolk police's quirky approach to publicity which began with last year's Lock Em' Inn campaign.

Safe! promotes the three key messages of the Nightsafe scheme - don't over do it, friends stick together and get home safe - through a women's lifestyle magazine which includes horoscopes, beauty tips and an agony page.

Detective Chief Inspector Louisa Pepper said: “We analysed who the people were who were coming to our notice as victims of crime and we realised they were the 18-25 age group.

“We thought about how we could get a message to them that is fun, will make them think about their evening and make them think about what they are going to do.

“There is no point in us sticking with the tired old messages.”

About 50,000 magazines will be distributed in pubs, clubs and hairdressers across the county and will also be available at schools and colleges.

The magazine includes tips on fashion which include not showing off your pants when you fall down drunk and gives advice on the damaging effects of alcohol on the skin.

There is also a “You Are What You Drink” section which explores the calorie content of alcohol.

DCI Pepper added: “It is mainly aimed at females at the moment but we do plan later in the year, or next year, to do one aimed at young men.

“We showed it to our partners in Nightsafe and they loved it and thought it was a great way of getting the message across about drinking excess alcohol and the possible repercussions.

“It's all about raising awareness of how to be safe when out and about clubbing.

“We are not saying don't do something, we want people to enjoy themselves and we are aware that people do drink and we want them to make responsible choices.”

Do you think the magazine is a good idea? Write to: Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or e-mail: eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk.

Weblink: www.nightsafe.co.uk.