Smoke alarms could help save lives

I read with great sadness about the three teenagers who committed suicide on Cheung Chau.

As a resident of the island I feel that the time has come for either the local district council or the owners of the 'holiday flats' to take steps to stop this kind of tragedy happening again.

Would it be possible as a first step, if it has not already been taken, to install some kind of smoke or carbon monoxide alarms in these flats (the teenagers had burned charcoal)?

I feel that if there was some kind of deterrent that it might give people an opportunity to stop, think, and hopefully seek help.

I know that in most buildings in Europe and in most major buildings in Hong Kong smoke alarms are fitted. Airlines have smoke detectors which are tamper-proof and this type may be needed to avoid vandalism or misuse.

I am sure the proprietors of these establishments and many others like them in Hong Kong would welcome a way of averting another tragedy.

In addition perhaps some strategically-placed posters or leaflets advertising support groups might in some way help.

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