118 - Write it on your undies!

You thought Geneva was boring? Well, here is a video promoting emergency service numbers in Switzerland (filmed in Geneva) that features firefighters rapping and dancing. Some are seen shaking their money maker in uniforms, while others are clad in hot pants. The longer you watch, the better it gets. This video is actually shown on television here to get the message out!

In Switzerland, the old directory assistance number was 111 and was recently changed to 1818. Problem is, the fire department's emergency number is 118, (like our 911), so now the emergency services have been receiving hundreds of calls each month from people trying to reach directory assistance (1818). So, what better way to educate the public about the right numbers to dial? That's right... a rap video.

The song is about only using 118 for emergencies. If you need an electrician, call one; if you get locked out, call a locksmith; if your toilet backs up, call a plumber; if you have problems with an animal under 10 kilos, don't call the fire department; but if you have a fire then 118 is the right number to call! At the end, the guy is explaining that regrettably the fire department will be unable to help you with your house burning down because they are so busy dealing with non-emergency calls. So you should "tattoo the number on your underwear" so you won't make a mistake.

"Cent dix-huit, au cas ou tu flippes.
Cent dix-huit, inscrit-le dans ton slip."

English translation:
"118, in case you freak out.
118, write it on your undies."

I absolutely love it! I wish we had done something like this at West Plainfield Fire when I volunteered there!