The Government will make concerted efforts to heighten the community's awareness to the safety of aluminium windows on their premises, Director of Buildings Marco Wu says.

Speaking on radio talk shows today, Mr Wu said the recent spate of window-falling cases are related to improper maintenance. The authorities have taken a series of measures to promote the importance of regular window checks and repairs.

Apart from regular maintenance, he said, flat owners should not handle any objects on the window sash as it will damage its structure and shorten its lifespan.

To help promote the message, the Building Department will join hands with the Home Affairs Department to organise seminars in the 18 districts, he said, adding the first seminar was held yesterday in Yuen Long.

He said the department's hotline, 2626 1616, will operate around-the-clock to answer enquiries on the safe use of aluminium windows.

Flat owners to get letters re: window safety

It will also send letters to all 1.3 million flat owners in Hong Kong, reminding them of the need to pay particular attention to the safety of windows in their premises.

In addition, the Housing Society will launch a free window inspection programme next Monday of buildings over 20 years old that have a rateable value below $66,000 for urban flats and $50,000 for New Territories flats.

Flat owners can call the society's hotline, 3188 1188, to register for the service. So far it has recieved about 160 enquiries.