Sock-burning safety ad banned by ad watchdog

Miranda Ward

September 25, 2013 2:05

The advertising watchdog has upheld a complaint against a safety ad which shows a man cheerfully burning his socks on an electrical fire.

Although the community service message from Fire & Rescue was aimed at demonstrating this as foolish, the Ad Standards Board ruled that it could encourage copycat behaviour from children.

(Ad courtesy of Ebiquity)

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Miranda Ward

Miranda Ward worked for Mumbrella from 2013 to 2017, eventually becoming deputy editor. Miranda joined Mumbrella in September 2013 from Sky News.

Topics

Advertising Standards Board

3 COMMENTS

John Grono 25 Sep 13

I’m not sure which they should ban first – socks or electric heaters. But clearly someone must do something to stop this outrage!

TIm Mitchell 25 Sep 13

Dear ASB,
I have recently been in an accident which has resulted in my longer being able to teach my daughter the difference between dangerous stupidity and good sense.

So, can you please do it for me?

Thanks,

Dumbass

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Ann 25 Sep 13

I have to say I agree. Ad developed by marketing people not fire and rescus people

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