WHETHER THEIR FEARS are actual or potential, Australian residents in high-rise and multi-unit dwellings are increasingly concerned about hazards such as fire, gas leaks, explosion, water damage, intruders or possibly, terrorist attacks. Private developments are less well served in this regard than public housing because participation of private owners in community education and training (e.g. evacuation practice) is up to individuals. In response to these concerns, SAI Global has published a new handbook for community safety in multi-unit dwellings. The handbook is based on Emergency Management Australia-funded research undertaken in typical multi-unit buildings and the perceptions and needs of their residents, and also on current models for volunteer and community participation. The manual makes recommendations for infrastructure development, procedures and training in case of emergencies affecting all types of multi-unit and high-rise dwellings.
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