RESIDENTS are being urged to keep common close areas clear in high-rise flats across Clydebank.

The town’s MSP, Gil Paterson, has welcomed a new Scottish Government campaign to make common closes safer to prevent fire risks.

In West Dunbartonshire, there are a total of 26 high-rise buildings, and managers will be receiving posters to put up – which set out good practice and highlight the real impacts which fires in common areas can have.

Mr Paterson said: “In Clydebank, we have a number of high-rise flats, so I very much welcome this information campaign.

“The tragic events at Grenfell Tower emphasised how important building and fire safety is.

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“So many lives were taken that could have been saved.

“Despite already having strong fire safety regulations in place, I agree that more can always be done to increase safety in high-rise buildings, especially in common areas.

“Keeping common close areas clear can help reduce the risk of the spread of any fire, while also ensuring that if there is a fire that escape is not impeded, and firefighters can get fast access.

“We must all play our part in keeping others safe, including preventing and reducing the impact of fires. I hope these new posters can help further reduce the risks in order to keep our communities safe.”