She’s a purpose-built mobile model house the size of a caravan, and Australia’s only effective experiential community education tool that demonstrates the multiple locations where asbestos might be found in and around homes and educates communities about the risks of asbestos in one third of Aussie homes.
Mayor Steve Christou said that Cumberland City Council welcomed Betty’s visit and said it was an opportunity to learn about the dangers and safe disposal of asbestos.
“Awareness and education are critical in preventing asbestos-related diseases,” Mayor Christou said.
“Betty’s visit supports our vision of ensuring our community is informed of the risks of exposure to asbestos and asbestos-related disease when renovating or working around the home.
“With more than 4,000 asbestos-related deaths each year it’s important to know the risks and safe management of asbestos to protect ourselves and our loved ones. Awareness is the solution.”
Australia was among the highest consumers of asbestos in the world and asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) can still be found in any home built or renovated before 1990 including brick, weatherboard, fibro and clad homes and apartments.
Geoff Wicks, Betty’s chauffeur and curator, said, “Betty might be a little house, but she delivers a big and powerful message about the dangers of asbestos to every community she visits.”
“Although there’s no known safe level of exposure to asbestos fibres, what we do know is that the greater the exposure, the greater the risk of developing asbestos-related diseases,” he said/
“Education is key to prevention and we’re delighted to bring Betty’s potentially life-saving message back to Cumberland City to celebrate her 9th year of service to the community.”
Council is also offering free asbestos collection for residents and a free online asbestos information session on Saturday, November 27. Reserve you spot at cumberland.nsw.gov.au/asbestos-awareness-month
Find out what you need to know to manage asbestos safely at asbestosawareness.com.au
Betty drives home message about dangers of asbestos
‘Betty’, the Asbestos Education House will visit The Granville Centre as part of Asbestos Awareness Month to educate homeowners, renovators and tradies about the dangers of asbestos and how to manage it safely, this Thursday, November 25, from 10.30am.
