In the middle of the city a man lies passed out, half on the footpath and half on the road - a stark reminder of the dangers alcohol brings to Sydney's streets.

The city's young Christmas revellers give every appearance of being unaware of any such risks as they party the night away after a week that has left two young men in comas.

Police out in force in Sydney this weekend as part of Operation Rushmore III, an ongoing operation targeting anti-social behaviour and alcohol-related crime. Credit:Steve Lunam

But as witnessed by Fairfax Media on two recent nights, sometimes it is only by sheer good luck the partying does not end in hospital - or worse.

The man passed out on (and off) the footpath on Friday night at the corner of Kent Street and Gas Lane was being helped by a group of dressed-up passers-by, unsure about what to do.