Police in Southampton city centre will be issuing safety messages* to revellers this weekend as they enjoy an evening out.
Pub goers walking through the Above Bar area will receive a Bluetooth text message on their mobile from Hampshire Constabulary, advising them to keep safe, stick to well-lit areas and not to walk home alone.
The text message initiative comes hours after a 24-year-old local woman was raped after she walked home alone through the city’s Palmerston Park.
Inspector Phil Bates of Southampton Central police station, said: “We want people to feel safe when they come to Southampton and enjoy themselves.
“Sending text messages to revellers is just one of the ways we are ensuring that local people understand the importance of keeping safe.
“If you take basic precautions you’ll seriously reduce your chance of becoming a victim of crime. At the end of the night go home with friends or get a taxi.
“Don’t make yourself vulnerable by walking through the city on your own and stick to well lit roads.”
*Mobile need to have Bluetooth endbaled and made visible to receive the message/
