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Get asbestos kit at info sessions

CUMBERLAND makes up a large part of Western Sydney’s ‘fibro belt’ with potentially deadly asbestos products likely to be found in almost any home built or renovated before 1987, even brick, weatherboard, fibro and clad buildings.

Throughout Asbestos Awareness Month, Cumberland Council is running free information sessions, household inspections and asbestos collections.
Mayor Steve Christou says they know the importance of educating residents about the dangers of asbestos.
“We need the community to work with us,” he said.
“This means safety precautions are taken when dealing with instances of asbestos, which will be discussed at the information sessions.
“I cannot express how vital it is to deal with matters of asbestos safely.”
Information sessions will be held at the Merrylands Community Centre on Thursday, November 21, 6.30-8.30pm; and at the Auburn Centre For Community on Thursday, November 28, 6.30-8.30pm.
Participants will receive a free asbestos removal kit valued at $100. This includes safety gear and all the necessary steps needed to safely remove asbestos sheets under the size of 10sqm.
Cr Christou says the council also has occupational hygienist specialists who will conduct free inspections on Friday, November 22 and Saturday, November 23.
To be eligible for the 45 minute inspection, your home must be in mostly original condition and built before 1990.
To register or organise a collection, call 8757 9000 or, for an interpreter service, 13 14 50.