Holiday safety is the theme of the latest "Dumb Ways to Die" video from Metro Trains and McCann in Melbourne, Australia.
Tangerine Kitty, which sang on the iconic original PSA from 2012, performs a version of "Deck the Halls" here. The lyrics warn against overloading electrical sockets to power festive lights or nibbling on toxic mistletoe. ("Christmas is a time to cherish/Don't be dumb or you will perish!") The song is available to buy on iTunes, with proceeds benefiting the Salvation Army Christmas Appeal.
This is just the latest extension of a campaign originally designed to promote rail safety. Other permutations include a Halloween safety video, a game for iPhone and iPad, and (unrelated) ads for a life insurance company.
Most of these iterations have proven popular to varying degrees. Still, I wonder if the inspiration has begun to wane—"Deck the Halls" treads familiar ground—and if these incautious cartoon cuties might be wearing out their welcome.
Overkill … now that's a dumb way to die.
CREDITS
Client: Metro Trains
Agency: McCann, Melbourne
Production: Airbag Productions; Electric Dreams
Recording Artists: Tangerine Kitty with members of the Salvation Army Choir