Take a risk

This sign made me smile, although it does actually serve a valid purpose as fallen leaves can obscure the old train tracks. But as I walked the dogs, I reflected on the reasons why nationally, we’re so risk averse and concluded that it’s a political ploy. Culturally, our public policies tend towards a high level of detail, with scenarios for every eventuality, however unlikely. This ultimately produces a highly regulated society, populated with a mass of accepting, conformist individuals, comfortable with order and rules. But, for the less acquiescent among us, this environment, however outwardly benevolent, can be enormously frustrating!

Elf n'safety

Yesterday, I had a quiet chuckle when I saw the paper “star” pinned to the top of a Christmas tree in a common room.  Some festive folk had decorated the tree with the usual trappings but obviously without the prior consent of the “elves of safety”  It had obviously been touch and go as to whether the tree was allowed at all; thank goodness there were no movement sensors in the room or the tinsel fluttering in the gale blowing from the ill fitting windows might have activated them.  As it was, the fairy lights had to go! Merry Christmas!