The Narcotics Division will disseminate mobile phone SMS messages to young people aged 15 to 25, reminding them to stay away from drugs during the festive season.

The Announcements in the Public Interest, "Drugs screw up your life", will also be broadcast more frequently on television and through radio channels and be shown on buses.

The division has also put up anti-drug advertisements and posters at KCRC trains, cross-boundary coaches and immigration control points like Lo Wu, Hung Hom, Lok Ma Chau, Man Kam To, Sha Tau Kok, China Ferry Terminal and Macau Ferry Terminal.

Commissioner for Narcotics Rosanna Ure offered three tips to youngsters who may be exposed to drugs :

* say 'No' directly;

* use an excuse to get away from the situation where you are being lured to take drugs; and

* change the subject by suggesting some other activities.

She also invited parents to take their children to the Hong Kong Jockey Club Drug InfoCentre during the holiday.

Located on the roof floor at Low Block, Queensway Government Offices, the centre is open for public daily from 10am to 6pm except Wednesdays.