JANUARY 4--Nobody can say that Mayor Michael Bloomberg isn't a friend to New York City junkies.

The Bloomberg administration is distributing a 16-page brochure offering heroin users 10 handy tips when it comes to shooting up. The Department of Health and Mental Hygiene publication is titled "Take Charge, Take Care," and offers advice on avoiding overdose, preparing your drugs, and taking care of veins in which you inject those illegal narcotics.

The brochure, excerpted here, has been criticized by law enforcement agencies as a primer for addicts. The Bloomberg administration has defended the guide, contending that it would help save lives via the safety tips offered. (12 pages)