News

Tips to tackle silent killer in your home

WITH many home owners still unaware of the health risks associated with asbestos, Cumberland City Council is trying to educate the community about its dangers.

Cumberland is part of Western Sydney’s ‘fibro belt’, a region that has a very high concentration of asbestos in homes and other products, and Asbestos Awareness Month is aimed at reminding homeowners – especially with so many home renovations underway – that they need to be aware of the risks and reduce the incidences of unsafe asbestos management practices.
Mayor Steve Christou warned that asbestos poses a risk to your health if the tiny fibres are inhaled so keep your home well maintained and be careful with those home renovations.
“There are many products that residents may not be aware of that were made of bonded asbestos cement including fibro sheeting used in walls, ceilings and eves, water drainage and flue pipes, guttering and floor coverings,” he said.
“Many homes in Cumberland City that were built before 1990 will most likely contain asbestos. As a council, it’s important to educate residents on potential dangers and how to identify, remove and dispose of it safely and legally.
“If you live in a property built before 1990, the council’s information session will be very beneficial to you and I encourage you to contact us for more information or to register.”
Find out how to safely identify, remove and dispose of asbestos in your own home at the free online information session this Saturday, November 21, 10am-noon. Participants will receive detailed information on how to carefully remove asbestos sheets under 10sqm, as anything larger must be removed by a licensed contractor.
For more information or to book, visit cumberland.nsw.gov.au or call 8757 9000.