20/7/05
Community Safety Minister Michelle Roberts has called on Western Australian householders to install smoke alarms or check their alarms in a bid to save lives this winter.
Mrs Roberts issued the fire safety warning today as part of the official launch of a major State-wide safety campaign, Community Safety Month, to be held this October.
During the four-week period, there will be a showcase of community and Government programs to prevent crime and improve safety in the home, at work and on the roads.
The Minister said Community Safety Month would be an opportunity for everybody to reflect on their own safety and that of their loved ones. One example of boosting community safety was increasing the use of smoke alarms.
"Smoke alarms quickly detect the presence of smoke and quickly alert people to an outbreak of fire, providing extra time to get out of their home or workplace safely," Mrs Roberts said.
"Emergencies such as house fires, and crime, violence and injuries can happen at any time to anyone - whether you are at home, driving the car, at school or playing sport and can often be prevented if people take the right precautions.
"On average, every 25 minutes a Western Australian is injured at work, and every 16 days, one dies from injuries sustained while earning a living."
The Minister welcomed RAC as official sponsor of the month, which last year attracted more than 20,000 people to participate in more than 100 events throughout the State.
"We encourage local government, community organisations, regional services, schools and businesses to play a role by conducting an event or by promoting the month to community groups and residents," she said.
"Our goal is to protect WA's unique lifestyle and ensure that all Western Australians are better able to enjoy their lives, safe in the knowledge that they are safeguarding themselves and their families."
Community safety events can be registered at http://www.communitysafetymonth.wa.gov.au
Minister's office: 9213 6600
