My dad has recently bought a 2004 1.6 Focus (facelift Mk1)

The handbrake light is staying on even when fully down, the light just dims. His mechanic says its ok to drive until he can take a look as the brake fluid is on max, is this right? The handbook says not to?

Also, when is a cam belt due on one of these? After the demise of his Escort he's a bit paranoid

Any help appreciated