It was quite a while ago that I (possibly) introduced you to the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in India.
They are the ones putting up signs like this one:
…with the sole intention of keeping you safe while on their roads.
I’ve been sent a couple of other Asian signs since then, in much the same vein.
In fact, the first one is even a BRO sign. And it’s a classic:
This should be part of a set including other spirits.
Driving dumb,
After rum.You’ll drive crapper,
After two shots of grappa.Driving’s a sin,
With a skinful of gin.Drive after brandy,
And you might meet Gandhi.
Is that last one a bit ambivalent. Might that consequence actually be a bit of an honour?
I don’t know.
But if there’s any psychology that proves that amusing warning signs somehow hit home, then I reckon that the research must have been done in India. Because here we go again:
This is part insulting, part amusing and probably just very well aimed. It’s not like the “No Smoking” signs aren’t all over the petrol pumps already. It’s just that people take no notice of them. This sign refreshes the customers’ memories, while gently(?) nudging them that the proprietor cares a whole lot more about his product than stupid people.
And then there’s this one from just over the border, by the Nepalese Police. And it’s actually pretty deep.
This is right up there with “Real Eyes Realise Real Lies”. But more threatening.
It’s so deliciously straightforward and could easily be used in any (English-speaking) country.
I’ve never upset the police in Nepal, so I’m safe for the moment, but this sort of honest, easy to remember warning would probably keep me on the right side of the law on every visit.
You have my email address. Bring on more Asian warning signs, please.