The campaign urges caution during the party season

The Lothian and Borders force said it expected to see a rise in the number of reported alcohol-related incidents and sexual assaults.

In the last two months, 24 women and 22 men who had consumed alcohol were targeted by criminals.

And police in Fife are urging people to be cautious when carrying more money and to secure their homes when away.

Lothian and Borders Chief Constable Paddy Tomkins the seriousness of the problems caused by alcohol would be highlighted in a publicity drive.

He said: "It is becoming more apparent that the misuse of alcohol is a real concern.

"It is true that spiked drinks and drugs used in sexual assaults are a danger, but it is equally dangerous to underestimate the effect of too much alcohol on the human body.

We are not saying you can't enjoy yourself this Christmas, just be sensible with the amount you drink and keep an eye on each other and your belongings Chief Constable Paddy Tomkins

"Drinking too much affects your judgment and can lead you into dangerous situations and may make you a target for criminals when you are at your most vulnerable."

Mr Tomkins urged revellers to be cautious of going away with strangers or people they have just met in a pub or club.

He said: "We are not saying you can't enjoy yourself this Christmas, just be sensible with the amount you drink and keep an eye on each other and your belongings."

Mr Tomkins said thefts from pubs and clubs were also a cause for concern.

The capital's Tollcross area was highlighted as a particular hotspot, with thefts from clubs alone accounting for 15% of the area's crime.

People are likely to carry more money and credit cards with them PC Colin Steer Fife Constabulary

As part of the campaign, police will distribute posters to licensed premises, offices and community centres to run alongside adverts on buses.

PC Colin Steer, an officer with Fife Constabulary's community safety and crime reduction department, said shoppers and holidaymakers should also take steps to protect themselves.

He said: "People are likely to carry more money and credit cards with them, whilst shoppers tend to leave newly purchased gifts or items of value within their cars

"The same with bags, when out shopping never leave them unattended even for a short time, a lapse of concentration is all the opportunist thief needs to steal your property."

He also suggested efforts to make sure unattended houses look occupied.