Media Statements - Smoke alarms for public housing

5/7/2000

Housing Minister Kim Hames said today that within two-an-a-half years every Homeswest dwelling would be fitted with a smoke alarm.

This year’s State Budget allocation to provide all existing public housing with smoke alarms would double to $1.4 million.

"There will be big increases in the metropolitan area in this area," Dr Hames said.

"The Pilbara and Kimberley will also receive additional funds, as an effort is made to fit all Aboriginal homes with these safety devices.”

The Ministry of Housing’s five-year, $5.3 million initiative began in 1997 by fitting alarms in all public housing for people with disabilities and seniors.

"People with disabilities and seniors were given initial priority for this campaign and 60 per cent of all Homeswest houses now have smoke alarms fitted,” Dr Hames said.

“All new homes have been required by legislation to be fitted with smoke alarms since July 1997, but the Ministry of Housing has gone further in fitting all existing homes as well.”

The smoke alarms are fitted adjacent to the bedrooms, with one per house, except for four-bedroom houses and two-storey townhouses, which have two alarms.

“Homeswest is setting an example for all private home-owners who do not have smoke alarms fitted in older homes,”

Dr Hames said.

“They are a crucial part of ensuring domestic safety.”

Media contacts:

Fran Hodge on 9481 3244

Ministry of Housing: Janet Wainwright 9222 4500