Play Safe

Play Safe is a public information film series produced in the United Kingdom during the 1970s and 1980s. The films were created to educate children about the dangers of playing near electrical equipment and other hazardous areas. The series is notable for its stark and often frightening portrayal of the consequences of unsafe behavior.

Overview

The Play Safe campaign was initiated by the Central Office of Information (COI) in collaboration with the Electricity Council. The primary goal was to reduce the number of accidents involving children and electrical installations. The films were broadcast on television and shown in schools across the UK.

Content

The Play Safe films typically featured scenarios where children encountered dangerous situations involving electrical substations, pylons, and other high-voltage equipment. The films used a combination of live-action footage and animation to convey their messages. One of the most memorable characters from the series was "Kite", a talking kite that warned children about the dangers of flying kites near power lines.

Impact

The Play Safe campaign had a significant impact on public awareness regarding electrical safety. The stark and often graphic nature of the films left a lasting impression on viewers, contributing to a decrease in the number of accidents involving children and electrical installations.

Legacy

The Play Safe films are remembered for their effectiveness and the strong emotional response they elicited. They are often cited as an example of successful public information campaigns. The films have been preserved and are occasionally referenced in discussions about public safety and educational media.

Related Pages

• Public information film
• Central Office of Information
• Electricity Council
• Electrical safety
• Television in the United Kingdom