In a groundbreaking move to bolster residential safety, the Urban Renewal Authority (URA) has rolled out the Home Safety Improvement Community Programme (HSICP), aimed specifically at elderly and low-income families across multiple districts in Hong Kong. This initiative comes in response to alarming incidents of fires and safety concerns that have plagued older buildings in the region.

Partnerships for Progress: Enhancing Home Safety

The HSICP is not a standalone effort; it marks a significant collaboration between the URA and various community organizations, ensuring that vital home safety and fire protection installations are provided at absolutely no cost. With special focus on vulnerable communities including those living in sub-divided flats and ethnic minorities, this initiative addresses pressing safety needs.

The target districts for this programme include Kowloon City, Central and Western District, Kwun Tong, Sham Shui Po, and Yau Tsim Mong. The launch ceremony, held on September 25, 2024, at the URA's Building Rehabilitation Resource Centre in To Kwa Wan, brought together government officials and community leaders to celebrate this pivotal step for residential safety.

Tailor-Made Solutions for Vulnerable Households

At the heart of the HSICP lies a commitment to provide tailored home safety solutions that consider the diverse living conditions and demographic profiles of Hong Kong’s older districts. Ir Wai Chi-sing, the Managing Director of the URA, highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating, “Our goal is to enhance safety by providing targeted home improvements that advance both residential and fire protection for these families in need.”

The collaborative framework involves input from government departments, professional engineering bodies, and community organizations to maximize the impact of the programme.

Success Built on Experience: Learning from the Past

The HSICP builds on the successful Home Repair Services Community Programme (HRSCP) that the URA has been running since 2018. The HRSCP established a network of home repair ambassadors who provided essential maintenance services such as appliance inspections and minor repairs for more than 5,000 households.

With the insights gained from the HRSCP, the HSICP launches with an expanded scope, incorporating comprehensive safety assessments and the installation of critical fire protection facilities. This new initiative notably extends its reach to include Kwun Tong, expected to benefit an even broader catchment of families in dire need of safety enhancements.

A Year-Long Commitment to Safer Living

The HSICP will operate for one year and aims to uplift the safety standards of over 1,000 households across the selected districts. This extensive programme not only offers free home upgrades but also provides education on safety awareness, ensuring that residents are equipped with knowledge to protect themselves and their homes.

Support from renowned institutions like the Hong Kong Institution of Engineers and the Institution of Fire Engineers enriches the programme with valuable expertise, as local district services and community care teams mobilize to guide families through the changes.

Why This Matters Now More Than Ever!

The URA's HSICP is more than just a safety programme; it’s a lifeline for families in Hong Kong facing the dual challenges of safety and poverty in aging buildings. With the spotlight on residential safety heightened by recent events, this initiative comes not a moment too soon.

As the URA actively addresses these critical needs, it sets a hopeful precedent for community-driven safety measures that not only protect but also empower the city's most vulnerable residents. Don’t miss out on how this initiative transforms lives—stay tuned for updates on this vital programme!