Three Towns Forum
The Local => Local News & Discussion => Topic started by: SteveH on April 13, 2024, 09:26:05 am
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A new thread for tips around the home and house.............
Warning over 7 spring cleaning home hazards that could kill your pet
Keep dogs and cats away from these dangerous everyday items
Spring-cleaning season is here, and a burst of energy fuelled by better weather has us sorting, clearing and getting busy with the duster. But did you know there are things in your cupboards and cleaning baskets that could be fatal should they fall into the wrong paws?
From knowing the dangers of an open bin or window, to not storing items properly, charity PDSA has identified seven everyday ways we could be putting our furry friends at risk. Here's what to look out for:
cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/warning-over-7-spring-cleaning-home-hazards-that-could-kill-your-pet/
Experts on the one simple mistake making mould worse in your home
Spring can actually be the point when your home is most at risk of mould, as the warmer weather encourages its growth
Even as the weather stars becoming warmer, mould can remain a problem for many households. In fact, it commonly emerges during the transition from winter to springtime.
Energy expert Gordon Wallis, from Your NRG, shares the simple household changes you can make to avoid mould growth in your home.
Read more..... https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/uk-news/experts-one-simple-mistake-making-28977092?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Mould, damp and mildew: Here's how to identify and get rid of them
Experts explain why condensation can lead to a host of problems, so grab your marigolds and get cleaning
This spring's dismal weather may have long lasting repercussions. Nobody wants to fling open their windows to let in the fresh air while it's so wet and windy.
But stagnant moist air can cause problems in your home. The terrible trio of mould, damp and mildew can lead to peeling wallpaper, discoloured paintwork and the dank musty smell of an unloved house ? as well as making health conditions worse.
cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/mould-damp-and-mildew-heres-how-to-identify-and-get-rid-of-them/
How to stop flies coming into your home
The summer months act as a multiplier for fly populations, allowing them to breed, and live free of cold, thus resulting in increasing numbers of flies across the UK.
Now we've entered spring, you can expect to find them in your home.
There are practical measures you can take to deter house flies, such as thorough cleaning which can get rid of breeding spots, and removing potential areas for flies to lay eggs, as they can reproduce very quickly.
cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/24268499.stop-flies-coming-home-fly-season-looms/
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I currently live in a rented property and when I moved into my first post-uni house, I was grateful for the already installed washing machine.
But over time, I?ve discovered it?s not the best working appliance and trying to keep one of the world?s worst smells at bay has become tiring.
I?ve tried all sorts of products at various prices to target different parts and while some might get rid of it after a few washes, it always comes back.
However, enough was enough and I refused to put up with a smell I can only describe as a rotting-something blasting me in the face every time I opened the washing machine door.
cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/24283530.tried-16p-hack-got-rid-bad-washing-machine-smell/
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Anyone drinking from a plastic water bottle this summer has been warned of the "hidden health risks" of sipping it when it's warm.And as temperatures rise, it's important that we stay hydrated and healthy.
"Do not drink bottled water that has been left in the sun or a hot environment, like a car," according to Sarah Lawson, a food safety expert from Storage Box Shop.
Sarah continued: "The heat can cause harmful chemicals to leach from the plastic into the water.”
https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/24374750.ok-drink-warmed-bottle-water-expert-issues-warning/
Dog lovers have been issued a warning about letting their four-legged friends onto the bed with them.
As we approach summer and the weather begins to get warmer, experts at bed and mattress retailer Happy Beds have revealed why you should avoid sharing a bed with your furry friends.
Dogs and cats will soon begin shedding hair, as they lose their heavier winter coat for their lightweight coats.
Experts at Happy Beds said: “The loose hairs in the bedding can cause a lot of irritation to not only yourself as the owner but your pet too. This fur can also harbour bugs and germs that can be passed onto you as you sleep.
cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/24374753.dog-owners-sharing-bed-pets-issued-warning/
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More of an advert, but informative?
'Always Pan' makers launch 6-in-1 Ninja 'air fryer' rival in UK that sold out in 8 days in US
The new Our Place Wonder Oven is set to be the most coveted kitchen appliance of the year having already flown off shelves in the US
cont https://www.walesonline.co.uk/whats-on/shopping/always-pan-makers-launch-6-29340484?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Six home maintenance tasks you should be doing now to avoid future headaches
Experts say taking these steps now can save you money down the line
Spring and summer aren't just great for sunny afternoons and barbecues, they’re also the perfect time to give your home some TLC. The colder months can cause problems like blocked gutters and leaky roofs, which can lead to costly repairs if ignored.
By tackling these issues now, you can save money and avoid headaches later on............ cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/six-home-maintenance-tasks-you-should-be-doing-now-to-avoid-future-headaches/
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An expert has issued a warning about eight "overlooked" and "dangerous" bacteria hotspots in British kitchens.
Keeping the items we use everyday sparkling clean is "crucial" to protect ourselves and keep our families safe.
“Restaurants, bars, and other establishments in the hospitality industry have very high cleaning standards for a reason, and your kitchen should be no different," Guy Cooper, Managing Director at Mitchell & Cooper, commented.
Guy continued: "Bacteria can grow at a rapid rate leading to illness, disease, and even death in extreme cases.
"So, roll up your sleeves, put on your cleaning gloves, and get ready to rejuvenate your kitchen. Your future self will thank you for it".
cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/24399262.clean-bacteria-kitchen-8-hotspots/
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It’s vital that our pets stay cool when the weather gets warmer but can you give ice cubes to your dog?
Doing so is a cheap and easy way to keep your dog cool but there has been talk of ice cubes being dangerous for dogs to play with or have put in their water bowl when they’re hot.
However, PDSA Vet Nurse Nina Downing has revealed that dogs can in fact enjoy the coolness of an ice cube when the weather gets hot.
Nina said: “Advice circulates on social media every summer claiming that the cold temperature of ice cubes can trigger a pet’s heat-regulating system, which results in their body warming up – however, this is untrue.
cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/24411975.can-dogs-ice-cubes-pdsa-vet-nurse-says-safe/
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Power cuts can occur at any point of the year and as the UK experiences storms and bad weather regularly, you've probably experienced one or you could be about to.
Having said this, they don’t happen too often so you might be unaware of how to deal with one and what to do if you temporarily lose power.
While it’s a good idea to know where your torch is, there’s more to dealing with a power cut than you might think.
To help you out, the Met Office has outlined steps to take when you experience a power cut ..............
cont......https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/24446144.power-cut--contact-prepare/
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Experts have issued warnings to anyone thinking about attempting some DIY at home this summer - and listed some of the most common mishaps that can leave you out of pocket. Thousands across the country will be trying their hands at DIY projects over the next few months but, as experts have warned, things can often go wrong.
Tackling your own home improvements without the necessary research, tools, or knowledge can quickly unravel, leaving you with a ruined plan and sometimes a financial burden. Beth Boulton, marketing director at leading home improvement specialists Eurocell, has listed some of the most common DIY mishaps that can leave you thousands of pounds out of pocket.
cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/brits-warned-over-common-diy-mistakes-that-can-end-up-costing-thousands?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Do you understand care labels on clothing? Know your dots, lines and crosses
Chanelle Georgina reveals the secret language of washing and drying instructions
Understanding the labels, sewn into side seams or necklines, involves decoding essential information. Alongside details about the fabric, a range of symbols will explain the particular way the item should be washed, dried and ironed – or not.
cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/do-you-understand-care-labels-on-clothing-know-your-dots-lines-and-crosses?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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If you use the Royal Mail regularly to post letters and parcels, you'll be familiar with the service's stamp system.
While most will know about the pricing and delivery times associated with these 1st and 2nd class stamps, many may be unsure about how long these last before expiring.
If you're thinking about sending some items through the post but are worried your stamps may not be valid anymore, here is everything you need to know.
Do 1st and 2nd class Royal Mail stamps expire? cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/24502841.can-1st-2nd-class-stamps-royal-mail-expire/
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It may sound bananas but Tesco says FREEZING the fruit is best way to stop waste
If it drives you bananas when they go all brown and mushy
How often have you thrown away bananas because they're over-ripe? It seems to happen overnight; one minute they're a little too green, then suddenly the skin has turned brown and they've gone mushy.
The perfect banana is a glorious golden yellow, with just a few dark speckles, and makes a satisfying snap when you peel back the skin. As they ripen, bananas get sweeter, softer and browner, and then fruit flies may start circling.
If you've bought too many bananas, the grocery giant has a simple solution to save them from becoming over-ripe - freeze them to enjoy at a later date. Tesco recommends peeling your bananas before putting them in the freezer, either whole or sliced up.
read more https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/it-may-sound-bananas-but-tesco-says-freezing-the-fruit-is-best-way-to-stop-waste?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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The public are advised to collect repeat prescriptions before the start of the three-day weekend and ensure that household first aid kits are thoroughly stocked to deal with minor ailments at home.
The Trust has recommended people use the NHS 111 Wales website to check symptoms or call 111 if they remain uncertain about their condition.
cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/24533094.welsh-ambulance-services-plea-safer-bank-holidays/
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While rodents have been scurrying around the UK all year, it’s officially rodent season and a gardening expert is warning homeowners to take steps to keep them away from their gardens.
Experts at Garden Buildings Direct are encouraging people to try some simple hacks such as closing any potential entry points and removing food sources to keep rats away from their gardens.
They said rats tend to breed between March and October and are most active between September and November.
The experts said that during their active periods, rats like to infest homes, garages and sheds as they search for food to stockpile for the winter.
cont https://puzzles.bestforpuzzles.com/games/syllacrostic
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With temperatures starting to fall and northerly winds blowing hard many Brits are thinking about firing up the heating as autumn brings with it a taste of things to come. So when should we bring our boilers on line and warm our homes?
Ofgem recently announced that the energy price cap is set to rise in October, and this could force cash-strapped households will hold off with the heating until absolutely necessary. But heating professionals advise that allowing the house to get too cold risks pipes freezing - which could cost a lot to replace.
cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/heating-expert-shares-exact-date-to-turn-your-heating-on-this-year?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Turn off those energy-sapping appliances if you want to cut your bills say experts. Leaving devices on stand-by could be hitting pocket your without you realising it.
Home appliances can nibble away at power, which over time accumulates and impacts your energy bill. While not the main reason for elevated electricity costs, powering down these appliances is a sound tactic for saving energy at home.
cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/switch-off-these-energy-hogs-and-cut-your-bills-says-expert?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Safety experts have urged Air fryer fans to follow these key 'do's and don'ts' to protect themselves from a potential fire.
The warning comes as new figures show that the popular devices are now used more than conventional ovens in the kitchen.
In fact, air fryers are now the third most used appliance in British kitchens after toasters and microwave ovens, according to a Good Food Nation study.
As the kitchen grows in popularity, households are being urged to avoid these easy-to-overlook mistakes in order to prevent a fire....................
cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/24613229.donts-air-fryers-safety-warning-issued/
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Has your hot water bottle expired? Check now to avoid severe burns
Here's how you can check if your hot water bottle is still safe to use
An expert on ITV's This Morning has urged people to check the expiration date on their hot water bottles and replace expired products. The show has also launched a campaign to prevent the 'worrying' number of burns caused by old hot water bottles and revealed that 'several high street retailers currently sell hot water bottles made before October 2022'.
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents states that a hot water bottle's expiry date is two years after the date of manufacture. ITV Consumer Editor Alice Beer said you can work out the expiry date of your hot water bottle by finding a symbol that looks like a daisy with a number in the middle surrounded by 12 segments resembling petals.
cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/has-your-hot-water-bottle-expired-check-now-to-avoid-severe-burns?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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With winter drawing in, the days are getting shorter and shorter and November is fast approaching.
To make up for the shortening days, the clocks will go back across the UK to give us an extra hour of much needed sunlight as we approach the darker months.
Here is everything you need to know about clock changes in the UK this year.....................
cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/24653943.clocks-go-back-uk-exact-date-clocks-change-2024/
In autumn the clocks will go back at 2.00am on the final Sunday of October, which this year falls on Sunday, October 27.
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Extra hour of sunlight? It will be lighter later in the morning but darker earlier in the evening unless I have missed something! :-\
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I seem to remember that the parties North of the border didn't think it made much difference, and South of the border the 'tired driver' campaign won out. It was believed that drivers are tired-er in the morning than in the evening and the stats supported that.
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A nice cuppa brings people together - sometimes the click of the kettle is enough to make someone pop into your kitchen. But if you don't clean your kettle regularly, germs will be popping in alongside loved ones when you turn it on.
A dirty kettle is not only dangerous for your reputation as a top-notch tea brewer, it can also act as a petri dish for germs. Bacteria can grow inside your kettle if there is a limescale build-up with repeated use and non-cleaning said Dr Primrose Freestone, associate professor in Clinical Microbiology at University of Leicester.
cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/your-kettle-could-be-full-of-germs-heres-how-and-when-to-clean-it?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Condensation can damage your windows and furniture, and it can also cause mould which could be detrimental to your health to form.
With winter fast approaching, many of us will be noticing condensation on our windows as we try and cut down on the amount of time we have our heating on this year.
But what can we do to stop it?...https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/24671528.stop-condensation-windows/
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Here are some tips for using a tumble dryer safely:
Clean the filter: After each use, clean the lint filter to remove fluff and fibers. A clogged filter can cause the dryer to be less efficient, damage the unit, or become a fire hazard.
Don't overload the dryer: Spread the load over multiple cycles if necessary. A half-load dries faster and prevents clothes from getting too hot.
Check the vent: Make sure the vent pipe isn't blocked, kinked, or crushed. Blocked vents can cause hot air to build up, which can lead to malfunctions or fires.
Check for warning signs: If the dryer smells like it's burning, clothes are taking longer to dry, or the clothes or cabinet feel hotter than usual, check the dryer. If you're unsure, unplug the dryer and call an engineer.
Use the right items: Make sure the items you put in the dryer are suitable for tumble drying.
Air dry: Air drying is more gentle and eco-friendly than using the dryer.
Empty the water tank: After each use, empty the water tank to prevent leakage.
Have it serviced: Have a qualified engineer service the dryer regularly.
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Tips on how to use your Thermostat this winter
Experts warn there are common misconceptions about heating your home so here's what to look out for...............
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/tips-how-use-your-thermostat-30349877
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Sub-zero temperatures are hitting the UK just as gas and electricity prices have risen for millions of households.
Energy bills are about 50% higher than pre-Covid levels, leaving many struggling to cover the cost alongside other financial demands.
So what can you do to stay warm while keeping costs down?
Prioritise staying safe
Keeping warm over the winter months can help to prevent colds, flu and more serious health problems such as heart attacks, strokes, pneumonia and depression, according to the NHS, external.
Pensioners, children under the age of five, people with health conditions and those who are pregnant are most at risk.
So, staying safe and healthy must take priority, even when it puts pressure on the finances. That extends to checking gas appliances are safe to use when they may rarely be switched on.
Family, friends and neighbours can play their part by ensuring anyone who is more vulnerable takes care when going out on icy pavements, or is well stocked up with food and medicines at home............ https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cd6084l4zx6o
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No one wants to deal with a blocked drain, but if you can avoid paying a small fortune for a plumber, then it's always worth a shot. Drains expert Jess Thomas from Drainage Central has revealed one easy method you can use to unblock your drain and save a few pounds.
She said: "Boiling hot water is often recommended as a solution for unclogging drains as the high temperature of the water can dissolve substances such as soap, grease or other soft substances that may be causing the blockage."
Jess noted that you shouldn't use boiling hot water from the kettle if you have plastic pipes as this could damage them. She said: "The water should be hot and not boiling to prevent damage occurring to the pipes."
MORE CLEANING TRICKS............. https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/unblock-your-drain-without-a-plumber-using-this-free-and-easy-trick?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589&utm_campaign=Daily-1022025&utm_medium=email&utm_source=IYA-DailyDigest&utm_term=news-link&source=email&sourceUserIid=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Transitioning to digital landlines: everything you need to know
You may have heard that landlines are changing and that the UK’s telephone network is
going digital. These changes will affect everyone who has a landline they’d like to keep
using. You needn’t worry: for most people, the switch is incredibly simple. Here’s what
you need to know and how you can help friends or family members who may be
concerned.
Earlier this year, BT and Neighbourhood Watch partnered to help communities navigate this
change, particularly in rural and hard-to-reach areas, across England and Wales. With 250
events planned, our volunteers are busy raising awareness, answering questions and
supporting the switch.
However, there’s still work to be done to ensure everyone, particularly vulnerable people,
know about the switch, what it means to them, what they need to do to prepare – and how
you can help them.
That’s why we’re looking for your help in spreading the word. Here are four things to
know about the switchover – and how you can help your loved ones:
Now is the time to inform and educate: ensure family members and friends understand
the switch, why it's happening, and how to prepare. Households will receive at least four
weeks' notice before switching.
1.
It’s easy – and comes with added benefits, too: switching is simple, requires no extra
cost, and includes features like spam call blocking for enhanced security. BT’s Enhanced
Call Protect prevents around 20,000 scam calls a day.
2.
Notify us of their circumstances: if you or someone you know has additional needs, a
Telecare device or healthcare pendant, or feels they need extra support with the
switchover, contact your home phone provider. Free engineer visits and battery backups
are available to ensure a smooth transition.
3.
What if they don’t have broadband? A dedicated landline service will be provided to
maintain traditional landline functionality without requiring broadband.
Have questions or need help? Visit the Connected Together website
or if you’re a BT customer, call 0330 1234 150.
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Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults, so it's important to prevent them wherever possible. Cera, a company that provides social care for the NHS and local authorities, has developed an AI platform to address this and reduce 250,000 falls annually, equivalent to 675 a day.
The Fall Prevention AI platform predicts when elderly people are at risk of falling or becoming ill at home with 97% accuracy, according to pilot tests of the technology. It analyses data logged by carers through an app to assess someone's fall risk and is currently in use across 29 of the UK's 42 integrated care systems.
From keeping active to making some home adjustments you can reduce your risk of falls at home.......
https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/9-effective-ways-to-reduce-the-risk-of-falls-at-home?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589&utm_campaign=Daily-1632025&utm_medium=email&utm_source=IYA-DailyDigest&utm_term=news-link&source=email&sourceUserIid=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589