'Wang Fuk residents allowed more than one return'

The government on Sunday said residents of Wang Fuk Court would be allowed to go back inside the fire-ravaged buildings more than once to retrieve more of their personal belongings. More than 1,700 households affected by last November's fire can return home in batches at designated times from April 20. Deputy Chief Secretary Warner Cheuk said about 400 families have already expressed interest in going back again after this round. "We will quickly summarise our experience from the first time residents went upstairs. We want to get a clearer understanding of the exact number of households that really want to go up again to retrieve their belongings," he said. "Why do we need to do this? Because the number — close to 400 — may change after residents see the actual condition of the buildings for themselves. We will make active arrangements so that residents can go up and retrieve more of their personal belongings." He said that on the day residents return to the fire-ravaged buildings, authorities will distribute protective equipment, such as safety helmets, cut-resistant gloves, and masks. He urged residents to plan ahead before going into the blocks and to avoid bringing unnecessary items. Edited by Tony Sabine