Home Accident Prevention NI warns on dangers of apathy over home accidents

HAP NI Chairman, Gerry Higgins said “Over the years HAP NI has worked tirelessly in raising awareness on the dangers in and around the home. It is only a few years ago that we focused on carbon monoxide poisoning but attendance at those events was very low”.

HAP NI wants the public to support future campaigns by being interested in prevention work and attending events advertised in their local area. The registered charity provides support and guidance to a network of 22 local Home Accident Prevention groups across Northern Ireland who runs campaigns on key themes around home safety throughout the year especially for a week in April with Home Accident Prevention Week.

The Chairman said “It is terrible that it has taken the Castlerock tragedy to prompt the public to react on the dangers of co poisoning but it is important to know about other safety issues and we are well placed to highlight these dangers”.

Safety conscious people can make a significant contribution in their own area by becoming involved. All you need is an interest in home safety.

The Chairman said “Local people know the demographics and we want to continue to make a difference by recruiting volunteers onto local HAP groups. You don’t need to have special qualifications just a passion to reduce death and injuries as a result of a home accident”.

If you are interested in knowing more then come along to the HAP NI AGM which will be held on Tuesday 7 September at 10am at Moyle District Council where a round up of the year’s activities will be discussed and those attending will be entertained by a local comedian and the possibility of a visit to Rathlin Island.

If you are interested in attending the AGM please contact the HAP NI Secretary Ita McErlean on 028 90501160. If you would like more information on home accident prevention in your local area area, contact Joanne Robinson, Home Safety Officer, Magherafelt Council 79397979.