{"title":"[topic] Environmental health","description":"\u003cp\u003eLearn more about how to avoid risks to your health in the natural environment (dealing with bites and stings; being prepared for disasters) or domestic and commercial settings (noise pollution; asbestos, lead and poisons; safety of small drinking-water supplies). For related content, visit the \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.mfe.govt.nz\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eMinistry for the Environment\u003c\/a\u003e and the \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.osh.govt.nz\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eMinistry of Business, Innovation and Employment\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"agrichemical-spraydrift","title":"Agrichemical Spraydrift - HE10108","description":"\u003ch3\u003eReducing Risks and Taking Action!\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat is agrichemical spraydrift?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAgrichemicals are chemicals used in agriculture for various reasons.  Agrichemical spray may be used to control insects or other pests, weeds, diseases, or to fertilise crops. When the spray drifts away from the target area it is known as spraydrift.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe amount of agrichemical spraydrift depends on weather conditions, the landscape (hills, shelter-belts etc), and the way the operator carries out the spraying. Operators should be following the guidelines in their Code of Practice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRisks from spraydrift will depend on such things as the extent of the drift, the chemical used and its effects, and the strength of the spray.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you have concerns about your health after there has been spraying in your area, contact your doctor or health professional.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat should I do if significant spraydrift occurs around my home?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOperators are encouraged to inform neighbours before they spray. This gives you a chance to:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003estop any outdoor activity, for example, children or pets playing outside\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eclose windows\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ebring in washing from the line\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003estore some water in clean containers, adding ½ teaspoon household bleach per 10 litre bucket of water to keep stored water clean\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003edisconnect the pipes to any water tank collecting rain water from a roof\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ecover fish ponds.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese actions help prevent contact with spraydrift.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eIf spraydrift does occur: \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eshower and change your clothing if you have been exposed\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ewash exposed fruit or vegetables\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eif possible, do not reconnect pipes to any water tank collecting rain water from a roof until after the roof has been washed down by rainfall.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat other course of action should I take?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can report spraydrift and have it investigated. Write down details such as:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ehow you were first aware of spraydrift\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ethe time, date, weather (especially the wind strength and direction) and events as they happen\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ethe colour and smell of the spray, if obvious\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ewho is spraying and the equipment used\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ewho else is spraying in the area\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ethe type of aircraft (if used), its identification number and colour, the direction it came from\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ean estimate of its height above ground\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eany symptoms occurring after spraydrift, and time lapse between spraydrift and symptoms.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou may even be able to video or photograph what is happening.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eSensitive areas include: \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eschools, kindergartens, etc\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eresidential areas\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eplaygrounds, parks, etc\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003epublic water supply catchments\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eponds, lakes, streams, etc\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003esensitive crops or farms (eg, organic)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ewetlands\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003epublic roads.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eContacts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReport your findings to your regional, district or city council. Your council offices will have more information about agrichemicals and spraying in your district.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eIf spraydrift has affected your health\u003c\/em\u003e, contact your doctor or other health professional and report the incident to the Health Protection Officer or Medical Officer of Health at your local office of the National Public Health Service (usually located through your local hospital).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOperators have a New Zealand Standard: \u003cem\u003eNew Zealand Standard for the Management of Agrichemicals NZS 8409:2021\u003c\/em\u003e, which sets out guidelines for the safe and responsible use of agrichemicals.  It is also the core document for the GROWSAFE Training Programme which provides guidance to ensure that agrichemicals are used in a safe, responsible and effective manner.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"HealthEd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":34774323822750,"sku":"HE10108","price":0.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/files\/HE10108-Spraydrift2024_COVER.jpg?v=1711501013"},{"product_id":"keep-your-head-above-water","title":"Keep Your Head Above Water - HE1248","description":"","brand":"HealthEd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":34774741811358,"sku":"HE1248","price":0.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/files\/HE1248.png?v=1787206765"},{"product_id":"keep-your-head-above-water-1","title":"Keep Your Head Above Water - HE1249","description":"","brand":"HealthEd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":34774741844126,"sku":"HE1249","price":0.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/products\/HE1249_Keep_your_head_above_water_sticker_0.pdf.png?v=1593001893"},{"product_id":"keep-your-head-above-water-2","title":"Keep your head above water - HE1243","description":"\u003ch2\u003ePrevent amoebic meningitis when using geothermal pools\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow does amoebic meningitis differ from other types of meningitis?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll types of meningitis are serious. Unlike other types of meningitis (meningitis caused by bacteria or viruses), amoebic meningitis cannot be passed from person to person. However, amoebic meningitis is more serious because treatment is not usually successful. With other types of meningitis early treatment can save lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMost meningitis is caused by bacteria or viruses. Even meningitis that occurs after swimming in a geothermal pool is most likely to be caused by a bacteria or virus, rather than the amoeba. Only a hospital test can show what type of meningitis is present.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEarly symptoms of all types of meningitis are:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eheadache\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003efever\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003evomiting.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSymptoms of amoebic meningitis usually start 3–7 days after swimming in a geothermal pool. If you have these symptoms, see your doctor immediately.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow is amoebic meningitis passed on to people?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe amoeba usually lives in warm soil. It can get into geothermal pools when soil is:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ein direct contact with the pool, eg, in a pool that is not concrete lined, or\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ewashed into a geothermal pool by rain, or\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eblown into the pool by wind, or\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ecarried into the pool on people’s feet.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf the pool is not chlorinated (that is, not treated with chemicals to kill organisms), the amoeba can survive in the geothermal water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen a person puts their head under water, the amoeba can, in rare cases, enter the nose and travel along the nerves to the brain. The amoeba then invades the brain, causing swelling and death.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe risk of the amoeba getting to the brain is much greater if the water is forced up the nose, eg, when a person jumps or dives into the water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eYou can enjoy geothermal pools safely by:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ekeeping your head above the water at all times\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003cbr\u003eDo not put your head under the water \u003cstrong\u003efor any reason\u003c\/strong\u003e. Never jump, dive, splash or duck in the pool as this forces water up the nose.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003echoosing your geothermal pool carefully.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWhen choosing a pool, remember:\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003enatural outdoor pools \u003c\/strong\u003edo not have to meet safety standards. This means that the amoeba can survive in these pools. The risk of amoebic meningitis is highest in natural geothermal pools where soil is in direct contact with water, or where soil – or water running off the soil – can easily spill into the pool.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ecommercial geothermal pools\u003c\/strong\u003e should comply with the New Zealand Standard for Swimming Pool Water Quality (NZ 5826:2010). The amoeba that causes amoebic meningitis is very unlikely to survive in pools that always meet these standards.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe safest geothermal pools are those which comply with the New Zealand Standard, or where:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ebarriers such as concrete surrounds, floors, walls, roofs, etc, help keep soil away from the pool water and water source, and\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eswimmers have to walk through a footbath before entering the pool, and\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ethe pool is chlorinated, and\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ethe water is filtered, and\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ethere is a constant flow of new water into the pool.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOther types of pools\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome swimming pool complexes may have both geothermal and non-geothermal pools. To comply with the New Zealand Standard, signs should show which pools are chlorinated and which are not.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome warm pools may contain ordinary water that has been heated by geothermal water. In these pools the geothermal water does not mix with the ordinary water. These pools should be safe because they are required to meet the New Zealand Standard.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you are unsure about the safety of a pool, ask the pool operator or local council to tell you how the pool is treated.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhether you choose to swim in a natural, commercial or private geothermal pool, it is safest to keep your head out of the water at all times.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eKeeping your head above water in a geothermal pool will protect you from amoebic meningitis\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"blockquote-nq\"\u003eWhat is amoebic meningitis?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAmoebic meningitis is a very serious illness that almost always ends in death. It is caused by a tiny organism called an amoeba, which can live in geothermal pools. The amoeba can be picked up through the nose when a person puts their head under water in a geothermal pool.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFortunately, amoebic meningitis is very rare in Aotearoa New Zealand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGeothermal pools\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGeothermal pools contain geothermal water – that is, warm water that comes from the earth in geothermal regions like Taupō, Rotorua and some other parts of the country.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGeothermal water can be found in natural outdoor pools, and in commercial pools such as public swimming pools or spas in hotels, motels, health centres and gyms. Some geothermal pools can be found in private homes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eRemember\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKeep your head out of the water when in a geothermal pool.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNo jumping, diving, splashing or ducking in a geothermal pool.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe risk of amoebic meningitis is greatest in natural outdoor geothermal pools where soil – or water running off the soil – can easily enter the water.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf you become sick with a headache, fever and vomiting after being in a geothermal pool, see your doctor immediately.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"HealthEd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":34774741942430,"sku":"HE1243","price":0.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/files\/HE1243thumbnail.png?v=1749172074"},{"product_id":"keeping-healthy-outdoors","title":"Keeping healthy outdoors - HE1216","description":"\u003ch4\u003eBeing outdoors in New Zealand is a great experience.\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eFollowing these guidelines will help make it more enjoyable.\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA visit to New Zealand’s great outdoors will take you close to nature in some of the last unspoilt places on earth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut whether you are planning a picnic or going walking or camping, there are a few simple things to remember to make your trip safe and enjoyable, and protect the area for others to enjoy in the future.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-two-heading\"\u003eProtect yourself from the sun\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSunburn and skin damage from the sun can lead to skin cancer. Everyone needs to protect their skin and eyes from excessive sun exposure. This is especially important if you are swimming or near water. Do these things all the time, but especially between 10am and 4pm from September to April:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWear clothes that cover and protect your skin – some shirts and T-shirts don’t protect you (especially if they get wet).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse plenty of sunscreen (of at least SPF30+) 20 minutes before you go out into the sun – check how many hours it will protect you, and reapply it often, especially after being in water or sweating.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWear a wide brim hat or cap with flaps and sunglasses.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStay in the shade under trees or a sun umbrella.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eShow your doctor any moles or coloured skin lesions that grow or change in size, shape, or colour.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-two-heading\"\u003eMake sure the water is safe\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe water in some lakes, rivers, and streams may carry parasites and bacteria such as Giardia, campylobacter, and cryptosporidium, which cause diarrhoea. These are spread by animals, birds, and humans through their faeces (poo).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMake sure that the water you drink and use for washing is safe. This can be done in three different ways.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBoil the water for one minute – preferably on a portable gas stove (but you can use a suitable fireplace).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdd regular household bleach to the water (5 drops of plain, unperfumed bleach per litre of water) and wait 30 minutes before drinking. \u003cem\u003eNote: This treatment doesn’t get rid of cryptosporidium.\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFilter the water through an approved filter (Standard AS\/NZ4348:1995) – these are available from camping or outdoor equipment shops.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter going to the toilet, wash your hands in a container of water and dry hands thoroughly. Drain the container away from the water source.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHand sanitisers do not work as well as soap and drying. When using sanitisers, keep rubbing hands until gel has completely dried.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-two-heading\"\u003eTake care with food\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt can be difficult to store food safely when you’re camping or having a picnic. Food will spoil quickly if it gets warm, and eating it can make you sick. Food can also attract pests such as insects, wasps, mice, and rats.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePut the food in containers that can’t be opened or broken by pests.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStore the food in a cool, shady place. You could use a chilly bin or put the food in a pillowcase and hang it from a tree.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWash your hands in safe water before and after handling food – make sure children do this too.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse safe water to wash vegetables and fruit, or to wash dishes and containers.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCook food thoroughly and eat it right away.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCook only enough for each meal and don’t save leftovers.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWash dishes immediately and keep the clean ones covered.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTake non-perishable food on longer trips.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTake extra care when hunting, fishing, or collecting shellfish.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisit \u003ca title=\"Food safety at home\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mpi.govt.nz\/food-safety-home\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eFood safety at home | NZ Government (mpi.govt.nz)\u003c\/a\u003e for more information about food safety.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-two-heading\"\u003ePoisonous plants\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe flowers, berries, and leaves of many native plants may be poisonous when they are touched, chewed, or swallowed. Teach children not to eat plants, berries, roots, or flowers, and to spit out anything that feels as though it is ‘burning’ their mouth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-two-heading\"\u003eKeep pests away\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInsects, rats, and mice can be a nuisance when you are having a picnic, and when you’re camping or walking in the outdoors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStore your rubbish in strong bags, tie them tightly, and remove them as soon as you can.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse fly spray or screens.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWear trousers and shirts with long sleeves if there are mosquitos or sandflies.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse insect repellent on parts of your body that are not covered by clothing – be careful using repellents with young children (always read the label).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-two-heading\"\u003eRemove your rubbish\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePut all your rubbish in strong rubbish bags and tie them carefully.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf there are rubbish bins around, use them. If there are no bins, take the rubbish with you when you leave. Campervan effluent should be emptied at designated dump stations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-two-heading\"\u003eBury toilet waste\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse public toilets when you can. If there are no public toilets around, you must bury your toilet waste.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlan ahead – take a trowel and toilet paper with you.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFind a private area at least 50 metres away from water, walking tracks, huts, and campsites.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDig or scrape a hole at least 15 cm deep.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBury the waste and cover the hole with loose soil.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMake sure that children also know what to do and where to go.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-two-heading\"\u003eCarry a first aid kit\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAccidents and injuries can happen anywhere and at any time. A first aid kit will help you treat minor injuries, rashes, and insect bites or stings. It should include things like bandages, pain relief, sunscreen, insect repellent, personal medications, and antihistamine tablets.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFor further information\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLook for the care codes around water and on the Department of Conservation website: \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.doc.govt.nz\/parks-and-recreation\/know-before-you-go\/care-codes\/\" title=\"Know before you go\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehttp:\/\/www.doc.govt.nz\/parks-and-recreation\/know-before-you-go\/care-codes\/\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor a more complete list of what your kit should contain, see the Mountain Safety Council website: \u003ca title=\"Mountain Safety Council New Zealand - Supplies\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mountainsafety.org.nz\/learn\/skills\/supplies\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eMountain Safety Council New Zealand — Supplies\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"HealthEd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":34774756589726,"sku":"HE1216","price":0.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/files\/HE1216.png?v=1787205748"},{"product_id":"noise-around-the-home","title":"Noise Around the Home - HE1122","description":"\u003ch2\u003eNoise around the home can cause hearing problems …\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany of the tools and machines used at home or when you’re out having fun can damage your hearing – even if they’re not used for long and not used very often.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow does noise cause hearing damage?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpending long periods of time in noisy places can damage or destroy your hearing. But short, sharp loud noises can also cause hearing problems and the damage can happen more quickly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLoud noises damage delicate cells inside the ear that allow you to hear. When you spend a short time near a loud noise, the damage to your ears may not last. Your hearing can return after a few hours away from the noise. But if you keep spending time near a loud noise, the cells in your ear cannot recover and the damage lasts for life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSigns of hearing damage\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs cells in the ear are destroyed, you begin to lose your hearing. Hearing loss causes isolation both at home and in social situations, and decreases efficiency at work. The ability to hear clearly higher-pitched sounds such as the voices of women and children, and the consonants T, K, S, Sh, and P, is reduced in people with a hearing loss. You may find that other noises sound louder and can hurt your ears.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs you lose more of your hearing, it becomes hard to hear what people are saying, particularly if there is other noise in the background.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou might also have a ringing sound in your ears.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHearing is fundamental to language, communication, and socialisation. The ability to hear is a key quality-of-life issue at all ages.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSound is measured in three ways:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhat pitch (how high or low) is the sound? Pitch is perceived frequency, which is measured in Hertz (Hz).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhat level is the sound? The sound pressure level is measured in decibels (abbreviated to dB or commonly dBA).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow long does the noise last? Is the exposure over the daily limit?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome people are more sensitive to noise than others and find many noises annoying, stressful and tiring. Noise can also stop you sleeping and make it difficult to concentrate, to listen or to talk.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut loud noises will damage anyone’s hearing. How much damage is done depends on the sound level and duration of exposure. To avoid noise-induced hearing loss, employers must reduce workplace noise and employees must use personal hearing protectors (earplugs and earmuffs) where their daily noise dose exceeds an average of 85 dBA over an 8 hour period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eExamples of approximate noise levels\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ctable cellspacing=\"1\" cellpadding=\"1\" border=\"0\"\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"col\" colspan=\"2\"\u003eDecibels\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"col\"\u003eHow long before there is hearing damage over a day\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eGunshot\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e120\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eInstantaneous if close\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAngle grinder\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e110\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2 minutes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNoisy rave\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e110\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2 minutes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eChainsaw\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e100\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e15 minutes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSkilsaw\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e95\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e60 minutes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLawnmowing\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e90\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e \u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAverage factory\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e80–90\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e \u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e10 metres from busy road\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e80\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e \u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1 metre from person talking\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e66\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e \u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAverage home\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e50\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e \u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eQuiet office\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e40\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e \u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLibrary\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e30\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e \u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDecibels are a ratio and cannot be added arithmetically. The threshold of hearing for a young person with undamaged hearing in laboratory conditions is 0 dB.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \"A\" in the abbreviation \"dBA\" refers to the method sound level meters use to combine different sound frequencies to approximately represent how humans hear.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen you are at home or out having fun, you may also be around noise that is annoying or can damage your hearing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlways remember that personal music devices, radios, home or car stereos, TVs and computer games all give out high levels of noise when the volume is not turned down.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAs a general rule:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf the noise is so loud that you have to shout to be heard by someone standing 1 metre away – the noise is too loud and may damage your hearing. So you need to protect your hearing by turning down the sound or wearing hearing protection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou may also choose to protect your ears from noises that are annoying and tiring even if they don’t last for long and are not likely to damage your hearing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"blockquote-nq\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003enoise + time = hearing damage\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow can you protect your hearing?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can protect your hearing by keeping the noise level down, by using noisy equipment for only short amounts of time and by wearing earplugs or earmuffs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePersonal hearing protection, such as earmuffs or earplugs, should be labelled with a class number between 1 and 5. Class 2 earmuffs will be ideal for mowing the lawn with a typical mower. Class 5 earmuffs are designed for exposures of dBA 105–110 over periods of up to 8 hours.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eTips to protect your hearing:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAsk if hearing protection is needed when you hire equipment, tools or machinery. Hire companies often provide earmuffs or earplugs you can use.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRead the material provided when you buy equipment, tools and home appliances. It will tell you if hearing protection is needed.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eShop around and find out what is comfortable for you to wear.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMake sure you have the right class of earmuffs or earplugs for the equipment, tools or machinery you want to use.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLimit the amount of time you spend using the equipment, tools or machinery.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf you find that you are sensitive to noise, see your GP.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eProtect your family's hearing at home\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSome toys can produce high sound levels potentially harmful to children’s hearing. Check toys before purchase and avoid noisy toys.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMany teens and adults set their personal listening device's headphones\/ear buds at volumes that can cause hearing damage. Typically, a person can tolerate about two hours of 91 dBA per day before risking hearing loss. Volume-limited headphones\/ear buds are now available and make great gifts for your family and friends.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat to do when hearing is a problem ...\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eArrange to have a hearing test if you seem to have difficulty hearing or you have the early signs of hearing damage. A number of health professionals can help:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYour GP can refer you to an audiologist for a free hearing test. If you want to go privately, you can find an audiologist at \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/audiology.org.nz\/for-the-public\/\"\u003eFor The Public » New Zealand Audiological Society\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHearing screening is offered to all New Zealand babies. The universal newborn hearing screening programme is described at \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.healthnz.govt.nz\/health-topics\/pregnancy-maternity\/pregnancy-newborn-screening\/hearing-screening-newborns\"\u003eUniversal hearing screening for newborns\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"\u003eThe Well Child checks include checks on hearing, particularly the eighth and final Well Child check for 4-year-olds. The Well Child programme is described at \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.healthnz.govt.nz\/health-topics\/pregnancy-maternity\/pregnancy-birth-and-children-services\/well-child-tamariki-ora\"\u003eWell Child Tamariki Ora\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eMaking a complaint about noise\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere may be noise in your neighbourhood that you think is annoying, for example, a noisy party, a building site or a neighbour who uses noisy machinery at night. Call the Noise Control Officer at your \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lgnz.co.nz\/local-government-in-nz\/new-zealands-councils\" title=\"Council maps and websites\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ecity or district council\u003c\/a\u003e. Local Authorities have statutory powers to control noise under the Resource Management Act.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor further information contact your local \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.hearing.org.nz\/our-branches\" title=\"Hearing Association\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eHearing Association\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=iTFPh-COLFk\" title=\"Hearing Loss\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eHearing Loss: Myths \u0026amp; Facts - Safety Training Video - Causes \u0026amp; Prevention - YouTube\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.healthnz.govt.nz\/health-topics\/keeping-healthy\/healthy-homes-environments\/noise\"\u003eHealthy noise levels\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOther information about hearing loss:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca title=\"Hearing New Zealand\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hearing.org.nz\/websites\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eHearing New Zealand\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/audiology.org.nz\/for-the-public\/\"\u003eNew Zealand Audiological Society (audiology.org.nz)\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNoise and workplace hazard\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca title=\"Noise\" href=\"https:\/\/www.worksafe.govt.nz\/topic-and-industry\/noise\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eNoise | WorkSafe\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"HealthEd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":34774840279198,"sku":"HE1122","price":0.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/products\/HE1122_Noise_around_the_home_1.pdf.png?v=1593002364"},{"product_id":"radiofrequency-fields","title":"Radiofrequency Fields - HE1103","description":"\u003ch2\u003eFacts about safety\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTV and radio transmitters\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCellphones\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCell sites\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCordless phones\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWiFi\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSmart meters\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBaby monitors\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRadio-controlled toys\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn recent years the explosion of new technologies has made our lives easier, more exciting, and, in many ways, safer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany everyday items use radio and microwave signals to operate. That includes such things as cellphones, cordless phones, WiFi, radio-controlled toys, some baby monitors and microwave ovens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, there are some concerns about the possible harmful effects these new technologies may have. Examples include fear about the number of cellphone transmitter sites, and the use of WiFi in schools.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis leaflet tells you what researchers currently know about possible effects, what is being done in New Zealand to safeguard your health, and where you can go to get more information.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat are radiofrequency (RF) fields?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRadiofrequency (RF) fields, or radio waves, come from the towers and antennas that produce and transmit radio and telecommunication signals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe RF fields make up the electromagnetic wave, or radiation, which is the radio signal. This is non-ionising radiation. It is quite different to the ionising radiation from X-ray machines and radioactive materials.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRF fields are also different from the low-frequency magnetic fields found around power lines and electrical appliances. Any possible health effects from electromagnetic fields from these sources should not be confused with the effects of RF fields.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow are we exposed to them?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRF fields are all around us. Fields from natural sources are very weak.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the home, RF field sources include microwave ovens, cordless phones, WiFi routers, baby monitors, and radio-controlled toys.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOutside the home, people who work in the broadcasting, transport, and communications industries can have higher exposure when they work close to RF transmitting antennas and radar systems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome industrial processes also use RF fields, such as dielectric heaters used for wood lamination and welding plastics.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat are the effects of exposure to RF fields?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA lot of research has been done over the past 60 years into the possible health effects of RF fields.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbove certain exposure levels, subtle changes in the behaviour of experimental animals have been observed. These are believed to be related to slight heating produced by RF fields. While a lot of research has looked for effects at lower levels, none have been established. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnalysis of studies of the health of people who have had long-term exposure to RF fields does not raise any cause for concern. No clear, consistent effects have shown up in studies of long-term exposure. The studies do show that if there are any risks, they must be very small.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat protections are there?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany people are naturally concerned about RF exposure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNew Zealand has developed a Standard (NZS2772.1:1999) with limits to control levels of exposure to RF fields. This is based on international recommendations published by an organisation that is recognised for its independence and expertise by the WHO.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe New Zealand Standard is designed to protect both adults and children. Exposure limits have been set at least 50 times lower than the level where they might start to affect health.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs an example of what is considered a safe level of exposure, people who live near, or go past, cellphone sites and telecommunications antennas are typically exposed to less than one percent of the limit set by the New Zealand Standard. In very few cases, the levels may reach five or ten percent of the Standard.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Standard also includes a requirement that, regardless of the recommended limits, exposure should be kept as low as possible. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeasurements in New Zealand and other countries show that exposure from household appliances is low.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWorkplaces are required to develop health and safety plans to ensure that exposure is within acceptable limits.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRecent reviews by health bodies around the world have concluded that there is no clear evidence of ill health caused by exposure that complies with the limits.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow safe are cellphones and their transmitter sites?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCellphones are a cheap and easy way to keep in touch while on the move. The demand for more phones and increased services has created a need for more transmitter sites to provide good coverage and capacity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe siting of radio transmitters, including cellphone sites, is governed by the Resource Management Act 1991. Regulations introduced in 2016 under the Resource Management Act (RMA) require that cell sites and other commercial transmitters must be planned and operated in accordance with the New Zealand RF field exposure Standard. The New Zealand Standard and the RMA regulations also cover 5G cell sites.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCellphone site antennas are usually mounted well above the ground, either on a building or a mast.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThey transmit a fan-shaped beam of RF waves roughly parallel to the ground. This means the RF levels at ground level are low and well within the international guidelines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhere the sites are mounted on buildings, the beam is directed outward, so people inside are not highly exposed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough the number of cellphone sites is increasing, many of the new sites are designed to cover a small area. This means that they can operate at lower power.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExposure to radio transmissions has been measured near many cell sites throughout New Zealand. The highest exposure is normally less than one hundredth of the maximum allowed in the Standard.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCellphones are weak transmitters. The exposure Standard applies to exposure from phones (and other hand-held transmitters) as well as the base stations. Major telecommunication networks only allow phones that comply with the Standard to connect to their networks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome studies suggest there could be a link between talking on cellphones a lot and developing brain tumours, but the researchers said that this result could have happened because of biases in the way the studies were carried out.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor this reason, RF fields have been classed as a ‘possible’ cause of cancer by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. This does not mean that they definitely cause cancer, only that we can’t rule it out. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBrain tumour rates haven’t changed since cellphones were first used. Laboratory research does not suggest that radiofrequency radiation could affect cancer development.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eUser tips\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you’re concerned about possible risks, there are some simple things you can do to reduce your exposure when using a cellphone:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLimit the length of your calls.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse a speakerphone or hands-free kit.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExposure from modern cellphones is typically 50–100 times lower than from older generation models. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere to go for more information\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you would like more information about RF fields, or want to keep up to date with developments, you can check \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.tewhatuora.govt.nz\/health-services-and-programmes\/environmental-health\/non-ionising-radiation\"\u003eNon-ionising fields – Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe latest information from the WHO project can be found on their website at \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.who.int\/health-topics\/electromagnetic-fields#tab=tab_1\"\u003eElectromagnetic fields\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"HealthEd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":34774857711774,"sku":"HE1103","price":0.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/files\/HE1103_Radiofrequency_fields.jpg?v=1743394735"},{"product_id":"safer-and-healthier-gardening","title":"Safer and Healthier Gardening - HE4605","description":"\u003cp\u003eGardening is one of the most popular leisure activities in New Zealand. It lets people enjoy nature and grow their own produce.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, despite its quiet, healthy image, there are some risks involved in gardening. This simple safety guide is designed to help you reduce these risks and get even more enjoyment from your garden.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eOrganisms in garden soil, mulches, compost or potting mix\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWash hands thoroughly after working with soil or handling soil-type products, mulches, compost or potting mix. Although soil is rich with many organisms that help the growth of healthy plants, there are also unwelcome organisms, such as tetanus and legionella. These can be found in garden soils and composted organic material, including commercially prepared products such as potting mix and soil conditioners. These products can be reinfected even after sterilisation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-three-heading\"\u003eLegionella\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLegionellosis (or Legionnaires’ disease) is a form of pneumonia. It’s caused by a bacteria called legionella, an environmental organism that lives in moist conditions. You can catch the disease by inhaling airborne droplets or particles containing the bacteria. There has been no reported person to-person spread of legionellosis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe illness may be mild or severe and can sometimes be fatal. It is more common in older people, particularly if they smoke, have poor immunity or have a chronic illness, and those with compromised immune systems are at increased risk of infection. To reduce the risk of exposure to legionella:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eminimise the amount of dust when working in the garden\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ewater your garden and indoor plants using a gentle spray\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eread the warning on bags of composted potting mixes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ewear gloves when handling soil, mulches, compost or potting mix\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ewear a face mask when opening bags or using potting mix and compost to avoid inhaling dust\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eopen bags of soil products or composted potting mixes slowly and away from the face\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003edampen potting mixes before use\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003emake sure the working area (glasshouse, potting shed) is well ventilated\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eavoid touching your face when handling soil, compost or potting mix\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ealways wash your hands after handling soil, compost or potting mix, even if gloves have been worn.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSee your doctor immediately if you develop a flu-like illness that is worsening. Antibiotics are effective against legionellosis if given early.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eTetanus\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTetanus is a serious illness at any age. Animal manures may contain this organism and it can be picked up through broken skin and puncture wounds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKeep cuts, scratches and grazes covered while working in the garden. Make sure that any injury is immediately and thoroughly cleaned.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf you have sustained a dirty wound or soiled an existing one during gardening: contact your local general practice team or community pharmacist to see if you need to be vaccinated or receive treatment. If you have received 3 or more doses of tetanus-diphtheria vaccine and it has been more than 5 years since the last dose, a booster may be recommended. Further vaccination may also be recommended if there is any doubt about when you were vaccinated.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTetanus vaccine has been given to children since 1960. If you have not had a course of three doses of tetanus and diphtheria vaccine as a child or adult, see your local general practice team. Adults need a booster of tetanus-diphtheria vaccine at ages 45 and 65.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eControlling pests and diseases\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSometimes gardeners use chemical or non-chemical mixes to control pests and diseases. These can be hazardous if used, stored or disposed of incorrectly. Insecticides, herbicides and fungicides can help keep your garden looking great, but there are other techniques you can use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Companion planting” works on the theory that certain kinds of plants grow best when planted together. Some plants have a naturally deterrent effect on predators, and other plants attract helpful insects. For more information about these techniques, consult gardening books and magazines or contact your local gardening centre.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo reduce the risks from chemicals:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePurchase only the quantity you need to do the job and avoid storing large quantities or mixtures of chemicals. Store incompatible chemicals separately.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTo avoid fires and adverse chemical reactions, keep oxidising agents, such as nitrate fertilisers and chlorine-based swimming pool chemicals, separate from flammable materials, such as methylated spirits and kerosene, and from certain fungicides (EDBC) which, when wet, will generate heat.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMake sure that all chemicals are properly labelled and stored in their original containers, preferably with child-proof caps. Keep them well out of the reach of children and away from food.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFollow the mixing and application instructions on the label. Wear protective clothing when advised and use any other necessary protective equipment, such as a respirator.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApply the spray when the air is still to avoid the chance of spray damage to other areas of the garden or neighbouring properties.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAsk your local authority about the safest way to dispose of unused chemicals. They should not be poured into waste-water or stormwater drains.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePoisonous plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome common garden plants are poisonous. They can cause a variety of reactions, from mild skin irritation to a severe or even fatal response, although few people do die as a result of plant poisonings. Current medical treatment is highly successful as long as help is found quickly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is no simple way to identify poisonous plants. Some plants are entirely poisonous (or toxic), while other plants concentrate their poison in certain places, such as leaves or flowers. Some plants are toxic to animals but not to people. Small quantities of some plant toxins can have a severe effect, while others only irritate if eaten in very large quantities.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChildren should be taught not to sample or play with leaves, berries, bulbs or flowers.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStore bulbs and seeds out of sight and out of reach of young children.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKeep the number of the National Poisons Centre – phone 0800 POISON (0800 764 766); this is a 24-hour service – in a place you can find in a hurry. It is also listed with Emergency Services in the telephone book.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eInsect stings and bites\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eBees and wasps\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo avoid stings:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eavoid wearing perfumed products in the garden (eg, aftershave, highly fragrant deodorants, hair and skin products)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ecover yourself with appropriate clothing, including gloves and footwear.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you are stung by a bee, try not to squeeze the venom bag at the outer end as you remove the sting. (A wasp does not leave its sting behind.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor bee and wasp stings:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eapplying an ice pack to the area may help reduce pain and swelling\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eif any pain or irritation does not settle, or if the area is red and swollen, seek medical attention\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eif there is a severe reaction to the sting, such as a rash, extreme swelling or difficulty with breathing, see a doctor immediately or call for an ambulance\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eif you react badly to stings, discuss the problem and possible solutions with your doctor.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSpiders\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome spiders found in New Zealand gardens are poisonous.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDisturbing the black garden tunnel-web spider can result in a painful bite and localised swelling. Wear gloves when working around woodpiles and retaining walls, where you may see the spider’s thick, white, sheet-like webs.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe poisonous katipō and redbacked spiders are very rare.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you are bitten and suspect the spider may have been poisonous, call the National Poisons Centre – phone 0800 POISON (0800 764 766); this is a 24-hour service.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor more information, see \u003ca href=\"\/resource\/spiders-new-zealand\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eSpiders in New Zealand\u003c\/em\u003e, code HE1424\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eGarden machinery\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile gardening can be a quiet and peaceful time, the equipment used in some gardening activities can damage hearing and cause other injuries. If used incorrectly or poorly maintained, lawnmowers, chainsaws, scrub cutters, trimmers, leaf shredders and wood chippers can all cause physical injury.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKeep your machinery in good repair and pay particular attention to engine covers and exhaust systems. Make sure any guards provided for the blade are fitted correctly.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhen buying new garden equipment, choose machines with a low noise level and check that silencers and covers are fitted properly.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBefore you start, clear the working area (lawn, fence line, footpaths, and so on) of stones or other objects that may be thrown by the machinery.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWear protective equipment when using machinery (eg, an adequate grade of ear muffs or plugs, goggles and solid footwear, such as shoes or boots).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFollow the operating instructions for any machinery you use. Make sure you have an isolating transformer for electrical garden equipment or machinery.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhen you hire equipment, the hirer is obliged to provide you with safety information and ensure that you are familiar with this safety information and any precautions that need to be taken.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAvoid using noisy equipment at unsociable hours or for extended periods.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor more information, see \u003ca href=\"\/resource\/noise-around-home\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eNoise around the Home\u003c\/em\u003e, code HE1122\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eThe burning question\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGarden fires and incinerators can smoulder for long periods, giving off thick, smelly, unpleasant smoke. Plastics and treated timbers included in the fire can produce toxic fumes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMinimise your need to burn by composting garden waste, recycling as many materials as possible and disposing of other rubbish at a landfill or tip.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCheck whether your local authority has by-laws or rules in regional or district plans controlling the open burning or incineration of garden rubbish.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eAvoiding injuries in the garden\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFalls and sprains are common garden injuries. To help prevent these, wear non-slip footwear and keep paths free of moss, algae and fallen leaves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRegular walking or swimming will usually keep you agile and fit enough to tackle most gardening jobs with little risk of injury or strain. Gardening activities alone can keep you fairly fit, but if you build up slowly to the bigger gardening tasks, you won’t have so many aches and pains at the end of the day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eProtecting your back\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany gardening activities require lifting, kneeling or bending. To protect your back when you are working in the garden:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eplace your feet apart for good balance and make sure you have a sound grip and footing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ebend your knees instead of your back, then lift gradually and smoothly by straightening your knees\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ekeep the load as close to you as possible and turn by moving your feet, not twisting\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003euse long-handled tools so you don’t have to bend\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ework at ground level by resting on both knees and your free hand. Move frequently so that you don’t have to stretch or reach.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMost garden centres stock a range of useful gadgets (eg, kneelers, long-handled tools) that make gardening easier for all ages and reduce the chance of injury.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSunsmart\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMelanoma is an increasing risk for New Zealanders who spend time in the sun. The critical period is from September to April between 10 am and 4 pm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAt these times, plan to work in shadier areas and stay out of the sun as much as you can.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWear a wide-brimmed hat and a shirt with sleeves. Fifteen minutes before you go outdoors, apply a broad-spectrum SPF30+ (as a minimum) sunscreen to protect any exposed skin. Reapply the sunscreen every two hours as required.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eShow your doctor any moles or coloured skin lesions that grow or change in size, shape or colour.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGardening is a relaxing, healthy and creative activity that also reflects our concern for the environment. Your common sense and these simple steps will help you to enjoy its pleasures into the future.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eRelated resources\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/healthed.govt.nz\/products\/he3363-legionnaires-disease-a4-poster?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=8075fea63\u0026amp;_ss=r\"\u003eHE3363 - Legionnaires' disease A4 Poster\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/healthed.govt.nz\/products\/he3364?_pos=9\u0026amp;_sid=b3d3d5a01\u0026amp;_ss=r\"\u003eHE3364 - Legionnaires' disease social tile\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"HealthEd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":34774874587294,"sku":"HE4605","price":0.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/products\/HE4605_Safer_and_healthier_gardening_0.pdf.png?v=1593002541"},{"product_id":"secure-groundwater-bores-and-wells-for-safe-household-water","title":"Secure Groundwater Bores and Wells for Safe Household Water","description":"\u003cp\u003e\n  If your water comes from a bore or a well, there are things you need to know.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n  Water used for drinking, teeth-cleaning, hand-washing, bathing, showering,\n  food preparation and cooking needs to be free from harmful germs and\n  chemicals. So does drinking water for stock and pets.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n  Clear water does not always mean the water is safe. The only way to know if\n  your groundwater is safe is through regular laboratory testing. Your local\n  council or public health unit will advise about testing.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMajor sources of water supply contamination are:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003esewage pollution, including septic tanks\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n    animal faeces, especially if animals are within 10 metres of a bore-head\n  \u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003efertilisers.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eGerms – Bacteria \u0026amp; Viruses\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n  Disease-causing bacteria and viruses may enter a water supply at the source,\n  eg, through animal or human faeces. Some of the most commonly found bacteria\n  in bores and wells are \u003cem\u003eSalmonella\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eE Coli\u003c\/em\u003e, and\n  \u003cem\u003eCampylobacter\u003c\/em\u003e. \u003cem\u003eCryptosporidium\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eGiardia\u003c\/em\u003e can also\n  enter wells that are:\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003enear rivers\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003enear septic tanks, or\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003epoorly protected.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n  Water-borne germs can cause serious illness (diarrhoea and vomiting) which can\n  be particularly dangerous for infants, very old people or people with damaged\n  immune systems.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n  If you are unsure about germs in your drinking water supply, you can disinfect\n  some water by:\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n    using an approved filter or purifier (complying with the Australia\/New\n    Zealand Standard, AS\/NZS 4348)\n  \u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n    boiling the water for one minute (or until automatic jug switches off)\n  \u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n    adding chlorine. Half a teaspoon of household bleach added to 10 litres of\n    water kills most germs, but only boiling kills \u003cem\u003eCryptosporidium\u003c\/em\u003e.\n  \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eChemicals\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n  Some areas have chemical contaminants in the land the groundwater comes from.\n  Sometimes these can be harmful, like nitrate, arsenic and boron and sometimes\n  they can be a nuisance, like iron.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n  A high nitrate concentration can affect breathing, because it affects how\n  oxygen is carried round your blood system. This can cause illness in babies\n  and pregnant women. Nitrate can enter groundwater from fertilisers, and is\n  often found where human and animal wastes are discharged.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe chemicals arsenic and boron often occur in geothermal areas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n  Iron is not a health risk, but it makes water taste metallic, and can stain\n  washing and whiteware.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n  Your council will know the groundwater chemicals likely to be in your area.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere does my bore water come from?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n  Bore and well water – groundwater – comes from rain and rivers, seeping down\n  through layers of soil and rock which hold the water and allow its slow\n  movement underground. The areas of “held” water are called aquifers. An\n  aquifer may be \u003cb\u003econfined\u003c\/b\u003e or \u003cb\u003eunconfined\u003c\/b\u003e.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n  \u003cb\u003eConfined aquifer (secure):\u003c\/b\u003e a layer of solid material, like rock,\n  overlays and confines the aquifer, forming a closed, protected collection of\n  water. Contamination is unlikely to enter unless a spring emerges at the\n  surface.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n  \u003cb\u003eUnconfined aquifer (not secure):\u003c\/b\u003e an unconfined aquifer does not have\n  the top protective layer, so it is possible for surface water to seep in. It\n  is no safer to use than surface water, especially in shingle aquifers overlain\n  by shallow soils.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow do I know what kind of aquifer I’ve got?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n  When the ground is drilled to make a well, the rock layers are noted (this is\n  the “bore log”), and it may be pump tested. This helps show how much water is\n  there, and if the aquifer is confined or unconfined.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n  If the water levels in the well are seasonally variable, the aquifer is\n  probably unconfined. Artesian water, which flows without pumping, is generally\n  from a confined aquifer.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow do I know if my water supply is safe?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n  The safest groundwater comes from secure aquifers under areas with little\n  access by people or animals, where there is no intensive agriculture or\n  industry.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n  Wells\/bores need to be properly constructed and located away from\n  contamination sources, and away from where groundwater could supply\n  contaminants.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n  ALL bore-heads and well-heads must be secure (sealed and protected), to stop\n  contamination of ANY groundwater, whatever its uses.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eContamination checklist\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n  Check near the water source – the feed supply to the aquifer – for the\n  following risks to your water supply:\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003epesticides, fertilisers\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eunderground stores of petrol or diesel\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003esewage disposal systems, including septic tanks\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eoffal pits\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eold or poorly maintained wells\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eanimals closer than 10 metres from the bore-head.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n  All these are a risk to your water supply, and therefore a risk to your\n  household’s health.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat can I do to protect my bore\/well?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n    Seal the area between the casing and the surrounding ground with concrete to\n    stop rain or surface water carrying contaminants into the well.\n  \u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eSeal between the casing and any hoses or cables going down the shaft.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eLock a protector cap on an unused well.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n    Keep rubbish, pesticides, fertiliser, animals and compost away from the\n    well-head.\n  \u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eSeal any free-flowing wells.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n    Install a back-flow preventer if you want to keep a hose feeding a stock\n    trough, to stop any contaminated water flowing back into the home supply.\n  \u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eCheck the security of your well-head regularly.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n    Earthquakes or other ground movement can damage a well-head, so a\n    maintenance check should be carried out after each event.\n  \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n  Contact your regional council if you want information on your area’s land\n  type, natural water flow direction, etc.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat should I do to protect my household’s health?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n  Protecting your groundwater supply, and preventing its contamination, will\n  help safeguard your household’s health.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n  Spending time and money on checking for contamination and protecting your\n  water supply will save on laboratory and water treatment costs and reduce\n  health risks.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n  If you are concerned that your water supply could be contaminated, or you\n  would like more information about your water quality, you can pay a laboratory\n  to test for chemical and\/or microbiological contaminants.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFor more groundwater information:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n    ask your regional council for the leaflet\n    \u003cem\u003eYour WELL WATER might be making you SICK\u003c\/em\u003e\n  \u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n    get a copy of\n    \u003ca href=\"\/resource\/household-water-supplies\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eHousehold Water Supplies\u003c\/em\u003e (code HE4602)\u003c\/a\u003e\n    from your local public health unit or council office\n  \u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n    check out\n    \u003cem\u003eGuidelines for Drinking-water Quality Management for New Zealand\u003c\/em\u003e\n    (published by the Ministry of Health, held by public libraries, councils and\n    public health services).\n  \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n  If you are concerned about your water supply contact a Health Protection\n  Officer at your local public health service, or an Environmental Health\n  Officer at your local council – they’ll recommend a local water testing\n  laboratory. Remember, a master plumber can advise on fitting a water supply\n  system.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePrepared with the assistance of the Canterbury Regional Council\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"HealthEd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":34774880059550,"sku":"HE1129","price":0.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/products\/HE1129.pdf.png?v=1593002563"},{"product_id":"spiders-in-new-zealand","title":"Spiders in New Zealand - HE1424","description":"\u003ch2\u003eWhat to look out for and keeping yourself safe\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNew Zealand is home to about 2500 kinds of spiders, most of them harmless to people. Only some spiders are capable of biting humans. There are three species of spiders in New Zealand that should be avoided – the Katipo, the Redback and the White-tailed Spider.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe katipo (\u003cem\u003eLatrodectus katipo\u003c\/em\u003e) and the redback spider (\u003cem\u003eLatrodectus hasselti\u003c\/em\u003e) belong to the same genus as the American black widow spider. These two are the only spiders venomous to people in New Zealand. In both species it is the adult females that are capable of biting humans. Bites from both species are extremely rare and there is a safe and effective antivenom for both redback and katipo bites.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-three-heading\"\u003eWhat to do if you think you have been bitten by a katipo or redback spider\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you suspect you have been bitten by a katipo or redback spider you need to seek urgent medical attention at your nearest hospital, medical centre or doctor. Even if you do not immediately experience symptoms beyond the ‘pin prick’ of the bite you still need medical advice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 class=\"level-four-heading\"\u003eDo\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eclean the wound with antiseptic or warm soapy water\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eplace ice on the bite (not directly onto the skin) prior to travelling.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4 class=\"level-four-heading\"\u003eDo not\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eapply pressure to the wound\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003econsume alcohol after being bitten.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo not panic as serious reactions are uncommon and unlikely to develop in less than three hours. Hospitals can provide safe and effective treatment. Venom is not always introduced with the bite. If it is, most reactions to the venom are moderate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-three-heading\"\u003eWhat to do if you think you have been bitten by a white-tailed spider\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you suspect you have been bitten by a white-tailed spider only simple first aid is necessary, as with any puncturing of the skin, as these spiders do not cause skin damage or ulcers:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eclean the bite area with antiseptic or warm soapy water\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eplace ice on the bite (not directly onto the skin) to reduce any pain or swelling.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor any suspected spider bite, see a doctor if the bite area becomes very red or painful, blisters, appears infected, or forms an ulcer. If you are concerned contact the National Poisons Centre \u003cstrong\u003e(0800 POISON \/ 0800 764 766)\u003c\/strong\u003e for advice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-three-heading\"\u003eCatch the culprit\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith all suspected spider bites it is important to know which spider may have been responsible. Try to capture the spider without endangering anybody and take it to the doctor or hospital with you, or describe it carefully for identification. With suspect spiders:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eapproach with caution – do not handle\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eyou may wish to use a fly spray that claims to be effective on spiders to stun the spider before killing it and\/or placing it in a sealed jar.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"level-two-heading\"\u003eKatipo spiders\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-three-heading\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" class=\"image-medium resource-image caption\" height=\"159\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/products\/HE1424-katipo.jpg?v=1593002717\" width=\"220\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/products\/HE1424-katipo.jpg?v=1593002717\"\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePhoto: The Otago Museum\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-three-heading\"\u003eWhat do they look like?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKatipo females (\u003cem\u003eLatrodectus katipo\u003c\/em\u003e) have black rounded bodies with slender legs and a white-bordered red stripe on their back and a red hourglass mark underneath. Adult males and juveniles are black and white and smaller than the females.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-three-heading\"\u003eWhere are katipo found?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Katipo (meaning ‘night-stinger’ in Māori), a shy native spider, is on the decline in New Zealand due to changes in its habitat. It makes its webs on warm sandy beaches and sand dunes under:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ebeach grasses and other vegetation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003estones and driftwood\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003edebris such as empty tin cans or bottles.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKatipo are found in coastal areas in both the North and South Islands as far south as Karitane and Greymouth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" class=\"image-medium resource-image caption\" height=\"220\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/products\/HE1424-kmap.png?v=1593002721\" width=\"157\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/products\/HE1424-kmap.png?v=1593002721\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-three-heading\"\u003eBites\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause of the katipo’s increasing rarity and non-aggressive nature bites are rare. Typical symptoms of katipo bites include pain at the bite site, which may spread to other areas, becoming more intense over the next few hours. People may also experience sweating, difficulty in breathing and abdominal cramps.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 class=\"level-four-heading\"\u003eHow to avoid being bitten\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo avoid contact with the katipo wear footwear when walking on the beach and sand dunes where the spiders live. Take care when moving debris and plants on beaches. Avoid draping clothing or towels over driftwood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"level-two-heading\"\u003eRedback spiders\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-three-heading\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" class=\"image-medium resource-image caption\" height=\"156\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/products\/HE1424-redback.jpg?v=1593002726\" width=\"220\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/products\/HE1424-redback.jpg?v=1593002726\"\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePhoto: Dr Julian White\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-three-heading\"\u003eWhat do they look like?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFemale Redback Spiders \u003cem\u003e(Latrodectus hasselti)\u003c\/em\u003e have black rounded bodies with slender legs and a white-bordered orange to red jagged stripe on their back and a red hourglass mark underneath. Adult males are slender with a cream abdomen with brown stripes and juveniles have additional white markings on the abdomen. Both the males and the juveniles are smaller than the females.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-three-heading\"\u003eWhere are they found?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRedback spiders are originally from Australia. They have been established in limited areas in New Zealand since the early 1980s and continue to arrive in cargo such as motor vehicles, machinery, fruit and containers, usually those imported from Australia. They make their thimble-shaped webs on the undersides of ledges, stone overhangs and vegetation. They are more likely than katipo to make their homes around houses to take advantage of the warm environment. Small redback populations have been reported in Central Otago (around Wanaka) in the South Island.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-three-heading\"\u003eBites\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRedbacks will only bite when disturbed or trapped in clothing, and bites are rare. The bite feels like a sharp pain similar to a pinprick. The bite may lead to localised redness, pain and sweating. Occasionally the pain and sweating may spread and stomach pain may occur. Aches in muscles and joints, nausea and vomiting, and increased heart rate and blood pressure can result.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 class=\"level-four-heading\"\u003eHow to avoid being bitten\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCare needs to be taken when handling imported goods, especially those from Australia. If you do find a redback on recently imported goods, contain it and report it to the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) 0800 809 966.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf redbacks have been reported in your area, keep an eye out for them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCheck clothes and shoes and wear gloves if working in the garden.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCheck behind furniture when cleaning or rearranging inside the house.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKeep areas where children play free of possible spider hiding places. For example:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003efill sandpits to the rim\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003etrim shrubbery\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ekeep shrubbery clear of spider webs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eclean swings and other play equipment.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-three-heading\"\u003eLook-alikes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is a second native Katipo species, the black Katipo \u003cem\u003e(Latrodectus atricus)\u003c\/em\u003e which is found mainly in the north of the North Island. It does not have the red stripe of the katipo or redback and is not considered dangerous.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" class=\"image-medium resource-image caption\" height=\"146\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/products\/HE1424-la1.jpg?v=1593002733\" width=\"220\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/products\/HE1424-la1.jpg?v=1593002733\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePhoto: Museum Victoria\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlso very similar to Katipos is the false Katipo, \u003cem\u003eSteatoda capensis\u003c\/em\u003e, from South Africa, which is now widespread in New Zealand and is found in a range of habitats from houses to beaches. It looks similar to the katipo but its red markings are extremely faint and are limited to the rear most part of the abdomen. The decline in katipo numbers is probably due to \u003cem\u003eSteatoda capensis\u003c\/em\u003e, as they reproduce more readily than the katipo and are better at taking over newly vacant sites.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" class=\"image-medium resource-image caption\" height=\"146\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/products\/HE1424-la2.jpg?v=1593002738\" width=\"220\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/products\/HE1424-la2.jpg?v=1593002738\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePhoto: Dr Julian White\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"level-two-heading\"\u003eWhite-tail spiders\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-three-heading\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" class=\"image-medium resource-image caption\" height=\"147\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/products\/HE1424-whitetail.jpg?v=1593002743\" width=\"220\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/products\/HE1424-whitetail.jpg?v=1593002743\"\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePhoto: Dr Julian White\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-three-heading\"\u003eWhat do they look like?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhite-tailed spiders (\u003cem\u003eLampona murina\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eLampona cylindrata\u003c\/em\u003e) are quite distinct with dark bodies and a white patch at the end of their cylindrical\/cigar-shaped abdomen. The juveniles and males have patches on their abdomen as well as white ‘tails’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-three-heading\"\u003eWhere are they found?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhite-tailed spiders are from Australia. \u003cem\u003eLampona murina\u003c\/em\u003e has been in the North Island for over 100 years and \u003cem\u003eLampona cylindrata\u003c\/em\u003e has become widespread in the South Island since about 1980. Both species of white-tailed spider live almost entirely on other spiders. They can be found in vegetation in gardens and bush, and around houses, which they like for the warmth. White-tailed spiders do not build webs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-three-heading\"\u003eBites\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe usual white-tailed spider bite can be painful but the initial burning feeling, swelling, redness and itchiness at the bite site usually goes and there are no long-lasting effects. White-tailed spider bites are not considered poisonous to humans. An Australian study has shown no evidence linking necrotic ulcers (destroyed skin) to white-tailed spider bites.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 class=\"level-four-heading\"\u003eHow to avoid being bitten\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhite-tailed spiders around the house can be controlled by killing any that you see and by regularly clearing away the webs of the house spiders that they feed on. Avoid putting your hands behind furniture or into places where spiders may be hiding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"level-two-heading\"\u003eContact\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor further information about spider bites and venom contact:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNational Poisons Centre 0800 POISON [0800 764 766]\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLocal DHB public health unit\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMinistry of Health \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.moh.govt.nz\/\" data-mce-href=\"http:\/\/www.moh.govt.nz\/\"\u003ewww.moh.govt.nz\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHealthline 0800 611 116\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor reporting spiders associated with recently imported goods, contact MPI 0800 809 966\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith thanks to Dr Phil Sirvid, Te Papa and Dr John Fountain, National Poisons Centre.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"HealthEd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":34774901751966,"sku":"HE1424","price":0.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/products\/HE1424_Spiders_in_New_Zealand_factsheet_0.pdf.png?v=1593002707"},{"product_id":"water-collection-tanks-and-safe-household-water","title":"Water collection tanks and safe household water - HE10148","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSafe drinking water is vital for the good health of you and your family and the people who visit your home. Water used for drinking, teeth cleaning, hand washing, bathing, showering, food preparation, and cooking needs to be free from harmful germs and chemicals. If your water comes from a water collection tank, it is up to you to keep your water safe and reduce the risk of water-borne illness from contaminated tank water. If your water comes from a mains supply, your water safety is monitored by your local authority.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWater collection tanks\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTank water may be collected from:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRain off the roof.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNatural water \u003c\/strong\u003e(from streams or lakes).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eA bore \u003c\/strong\u003e(a deep hole in the ground).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eA spring\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWater supplies from all these sources can very easily become unsafe. For example:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRoof water may be corrosive or may become contaminated with ash, dust, agricultural spray, bird or possum droppings.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWater from rivers, streams, shallow bore and spring may contain harmful germs, chemicals or be discoloured and unpleasant to taste.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBore water can contain harmful chemicals and may be hard or corrosive.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you are unsure about the quality of your water, have it tested in a recognised laboratory (see the box on the back for details).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"level-two-heading\"\u003eWater contamination\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWater contamination can cause serious illness (for example, diarrhoea and vomiting), which can be particularly dangerous for infants, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-three-heading\"\u003eContamination of a tank water supply can be caused by:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eViruses and germs (such as \u003cem\u003eCryptosporidium, Giardia, Campylobacter, Salmonella, E. Coli 0157\u003c\/em\u003e) from animal or bird faeces entering the source of the supply.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBird or animal droppings on the roof, dead animals or insects in the gutters or in the tank itself.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLeaves, soil, or other debris entering the tank.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLead flashing on the roof causing high lead levels in the collected water.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVolcanic and wood ash, agricultural spray drift, and chemical residues from road vehicle emissions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCracks or holes in partially-buried tanks.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-three-heading\"\u003eWays to improve the quality of roof-collected rainwater\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInstall the entire system correctly.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEnsure the roof surface is suitable for collecting quality rainwater.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse safe roof paint:\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003echeck old paint for lead through your local public health unit\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003echoose paint that the manufacturer advises is suitable for roof water.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse plastic pipes and gutters approved for rainwater collection.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInstall a gutter mesh to prevent leaves and debris from blocking gutters.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInclude a fine mesh (such as a debris screen) and a first flush diverter (a device that reduces contamination of the tank water by diverting the first flush of contaminated water when it rains).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInstall the inlet pipe to the tank so that the roof water enters near the bottom of the tank through a ‘U’ bend in the pipe. This will avoid disturbing sediment in the bottom of the tank.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFit a floating outlet pipe to extract water from near the top of the tank. This is a flexible outlet hose that is attached below a float and it is always just below the surface of the water in the tank.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAttach insect-proof screens at the ends of the tank overflow outlets to keep mosquitoes and pests out. Ensure that the tank is vented properly to reduce pressure build-up, allowing the water to breathe.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOperate two tanks in series. This provides higher quality water than water that is stored in just one large tank.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCover the tank to prevent animals, birds, and other matter from entering.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" class=\"image-large resource-image caption\" height=\"237\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/products\/HE10148_20image1.JPG?v=1593002855\" width=\"335\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRoof areas should be kept clear of overhanging vegetation to prevent leaves and other debris from falling onto the catchment. Overhanging branches also give rodents, cats, and possums access to the roof and allow birds to roost above it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWARNING: Take care when cleaning roofs and gutters. Ensure that the ladder is secure and away from power lines and make sure another person is present while you are cleaning.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-three-heading\"\u003eIf there is any evidence of faecal contamination on your roof:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDisconnect the pipes that feed water to the tank.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eClean the droppings from the roof by adding half a teaspoon of plain, unperfumed household bleach to 10 litres of water and use this to scrub and flush away the faecal material (do not use scented or coloured brands of bleach).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse sufficient quantities of clean water to flush away the remaining material.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReconnect the pipes that feed water to the tank.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-three-heading\"\u003eIf your gutters need cleaning:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDisconnect the pipes that feed water to the tank.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRemove any debris that have collected in the gutters.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse clean water to flush the gutters of all dirt, animal droppings, or paint flakes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReconnect the pipes to the tank.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-three-heading\"\u003eTank cleaning\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTanks should be inspected annually and cleaned if necessary. Ideally tank cleaning should be carried out by tank cleaning contractors\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWARNING: If you enter the tank to clean it, ensure there is adequate ventilation and another person present.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCleaning should generally be limited to removing accumulated sediment, leaf litter, or other objects such as insects and animals that may have gained access to the tank.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSediment may be removed by:\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003einstalling a tank vacuum system that automatically siphons off sediment from the bottom of the tank whenever the tank water overflows\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eputting an inverted funnel on the end of a hose and moving it carefully across the bottom of the tank\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eusing a swimming pool vacuum cleaner.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFurther details on tank cleaning and disinfection can be found in the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.phfscience.nz\/digital-library\/household-water-supplies-the-selection-operation-and-maintenance-of-individual-household-water-supplies\/\" title=\"Household Water Supplies\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eHousehold Water Supplies\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e booklet (see box on the back panel).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"level-two-heading\"\u003eOther ways to keep household water safe\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWater that is untreated or from mixed sources is often corrosive and plastic pipes should be used to carry cold water. If you are installing a new system, see \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.phfscience.nz\/digital-library\/household-water-supplies-the-selection-operation-and-maintenance-of-individual-household-water-supplies\/\" title=\"Household water supplies\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eHousehold Water Supplies\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e for more information.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-three-heading\"\u003eA water filter or point-of-use device\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWater filters help remove impurities from your household water. To treat all household water, place the filter at the point where the water enters your house. To treat some of the water, put the filter on the appropriate tap. Always install filters in places where it can be easily inspected and cleaned.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWater filters may remove:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003etastes and smells\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eharmful bugs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003echemicals.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eNote: Most filters will only remove one or two types of impurities therefore, it is important that you choose the right type of filter for your needs. Buy from reputable suppliers and always ask the supplier what the device can and can’t do before buying.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-three-heading\"\u003eDisinfect unsafe water\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you are unsure about the quality and safety of your drinking-water, you can disinfect the supply by:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUsing an approved filter or purifier.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBoiling the water for one minute. Boiling is the simplest and most effective method to reliably kill \u003cem\u003eCryptosporidium \u003c\/em\u003eparasites and other germs. It is ok to use jugs with an automatic cut-off switch, as long as the jug is full. Never hold down the switch to increase the boiling time. The jug should be allowed to turn off automatically.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdding half a teaspoon of plain, unperfumed household bleach to 10 litres of water. This will kill most germs (but note that some parasites are resistant to chlorine). Bleach used to disinfect water should not contain perfume, colour, or detergents (surfactants), so always check the label before using.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"level-three-heading\"\u003eA backflow prevention device\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBackflow prevention devices stop contaminated water from flowing back into the household water supply. Devices are required on:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHome-made toilet flush systems.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAnimal dosing, washing, and watering systems.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConnections for hoses that are used for mixing sprays, or for washing down animal or bird droppings.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eA registered water carrier\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you need to fill your water tanks from an external source, such as in times of low rainfall, use a registered water carrier. To find a registered water carrier in your area, see \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/hinekorako.taumataarowai.govt.nz\/publicregister\/supplies\/\"\u003ePublic Register of Drinking Water Supplies  · Hinekōrako\u003c\/a\u003e on the Taumata Arowai website. Ask the carrier for a delivery docket that includes information about the source of the water and any instructions for use (such as whether it needs boiling).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor more information on water safety and tank installation, read \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.phfscience.nz\/digital-library\/household-water-supplies-the-selection-operation-and-maintenance-of-individual-household-water-supplies\/\"\u003eHousehold water supplies: the selection, operation and maintenance of individual household water supplies\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you are concerned about the quality of your drinking-water supply, contact a Health Protection Officer at your local public health unit or an Environmental Health Officer at your local council. They can also advise you on the location of water-testing laboratories and assist you with the interpretation of laboratory results.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"HealthEd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":34774933405854,"sku":"HE10148","price":0.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/products\/HE10148_Water_collection_tanks_and_safe_household_water.pdf.png?v=1593002848"},{"product_id":"health-risks-from-smoke-and-ash-he2909","title":"Health risks from smoke and ash - HE2909","description":"\u003ch2\u003eInformation Sheet\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSmoke can be a health hazard. Fine particles in soot and ash can irritate lungs and skin. Soot and ash can settle on surfaces around your home and garden for several days after the fire has been extinguished. Fire retardants and foam from firefighting may also be present.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSmoke and ash inhalation can be dangerous\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSmoke may irritate your eyes, nose, throat and airways. Symptoms can include runny or sore eyes, dry or sore throat, sore nose, cough, tightness of chest or difficulty breathing. Most people’s symptoms disappear soon after their smoke exposure ends, causing no long-term health problems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eIf you are in an area where you can see or smell smoke or have received an emergency alert, you should:\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFollow the advice of emergency services and leave the area if this is required.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf you are safe to stay in the area, remain indoors and shut your windows and doors.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTurn off your air conditioning or switch to ‘recirculate’.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKeep pets inside with clean water, food and bedding.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSome people are more at risk from smoke and ash inhalation such as\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eElderly or pregnant people\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBabies and young children\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThose with heart or lung conditions like asthma or heart disease.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese people should stay indoors until the smoke has cleared. They should avoid any clean-up of ash and soot around the home if possible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBreathing in fine particles of ash or soot can worsen pre-existing medical conditions such as asthma and heart disease. Please continue to take any medications for these conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eIf you experience shortness of breath, wheezing, asthma or chest pain please see your doctor immediately or call 111. For health advice you can also contact Healthline for free anytime on \u003ca href=\"Tel:0800611116\" title=\"Call 0800 611 116\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e0800 611 116\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAsh and soot can contaminate water and food\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eIf your drinking water comes from tanks\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf you are not on Council water supply, you will need to check your roof and rainwater storage tanks for ash, debris, fire retardants or foam.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou should disconnect the downpipe to the water tanks if you see any evidence or there is risk of ash, debris, retardants or foam, or there is a risk of any of these. They will contaminate your water supply. For people needing assistance, contact whānau, neighbours, volunteers or your local Civil Defence.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf you find ash in your water tank or the water has an unusual taste, odour or appearance (possibly a sign of retardants or foam) don’t use the water for drinking, food preparation, cleaning teeth, washing or for pets.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDisinfecting or boiling the water will not remove ash, retardants or foam.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWater runoff after fires might contaminate streams, rivers, lakes and groundwater supplies. If your water comes from one of these sources, arrange for it to be tested.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse bottled water or saved water as an alternative safe supply.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDo not reconnect the downpipe until a good flush of rain has cleaned the roof or it has been hosed down.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eContaminated water can be used to flush toilets and water gardens.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eFood Safety\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWash fruit and vegetables from your garden with safe drinking water before cooking or eating raw. Do not use rainwater from a tank.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCleaning up\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf your home has been affected by smoke, take steps to clean up ash and soot safely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWear a N95 or P2 mask if you have one (from a hardware or health and safety shop), otherwise a surgical mask.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWear gloves, a long-sleeved shirt and long pants to avoid skin contact.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWash your hands regularly, particularly after clean-up and before eating.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChildren should NOT be involved in any clean up.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf your home has been heavily contaminated with ash, soot or smoke, consider using a professional cleaner. Check your insurance policy covers\u003cb\u003e \u003c\/b\u003esmoke damage and clean-up by contacting your insurance company.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCleaning up ash inside your home\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWash hard surfaces, toys, food preparation areas, pet food and water bowls and any cooking utensils left out, using hot water and detergent.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWipe any visible soot or dust (e.g. on windowsills) using a damp cloth or mop with detergent.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVacuum clean carpets and upholstery, preferably using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eClean air conditioning unit filters or ventilation systems or ask your property manager to do this.  \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eClothing exposed to smoke in the house or on the washing line should be washed.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCleaning up ash outside your home\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHose down ash and debris from your roof, exterior walls and outdoor surfaces.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRemove large pieces of debris with gloves, ensuring the debris is cool before placing it in the bin.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eClean filters and covers of outdoor pools.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFire retardants and foams\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFirefighting retardants and foams may be used to fight the fire. These do not present a significant risk to health and will break down with rain. They may leave a pink or soapy substance around the area of the fire.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFor more information\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fireandemergency.nz\/home-fire-safety\/in-the-event-of-a-fire\/restoring-your-property\/\"\u003eRestoring your property | Fire and Emergency New Zealand\u003c\/a\u003e – Fire and Emergency NZ\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.taumataarowai.govt.nz\/for-communities\/emergencies\/treating-water\/\"\u003eHow to make water safe to drink under a boil water notice | Taumata Arowai\u003c\/a\u003e – Taumata Arowai\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"HealthEd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46447752249572,"sku":"HE2909","price":0.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/files\/HE2909thumbnail_f3495c7c-295f-43ff-8b55-5214959da869.png?v=1766454166"},{"product_id":"feeding-your-baby-in-an-emergency-he2910","title":"Feeding your baby in an emergency - HE2910","description":"\u003ch2\u003eInformation Sheet\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBreastfeeding is the safest way to feed babies, particularly in an emergency. If this is not an option, take extra care when preparing infant formula. You will need safe, clean water and a way to sterilise equipment like bottles and teats.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBabies are at more risk of becoming dehydrated or getting sick, so they need special care and attention in an emergency. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eBreastfeeding is best in an emergency\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you breastfeed, do not start formula feeding in an emergency. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBreastfeeding is the safest way to feed babies, particularly in an emergency. If possible, increase breastfeeding rather than use formula.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLook after yourself by drinking safe water and eating regularly. This will help maintain your breastmilk supply.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBreastfeeding can help calm you and your baby. Continue to breastfeed even if you are concerned your milk is not flowing as well. Offering a baby a feed more frequently will help get your supply back to normal. Keep your baby close with skin-to-skin contact, where possible in a quiet comfortable place.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou may be able to start breastfeeding again if you stopped in the last few weeks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eIf expressing milk\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSee the advice on sterilising bottles and breast pumps. If you cannot sterilise the breast pump parts you will need to hand express into a sterilised bottle, bowl or container.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can keep expressed milk (fresh or thawed) for 4 hours at room temperature. If you are not sure when the breastmilk thawed, do not use the milk. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFormula feeding in an emergency\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you do not have safe water or electricity, take extra care preparing feeds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse newborn formula for babies 0-6 months. This is suitable for older babies if you run out.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSurfaces and utensils must be as clean as possible. Use a clean paper towel on surfaces if unable to clean.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWash hands for 20 seconds. If you don’t have warm, soapy water – use a baby wipe to remove visible dirt and then use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSterilise bottles, teats and breast pump parts\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFirst, dismantle and wash the bottles, teats and breast pump parts that have been in contact with breastmilk in warm, soapy water, and rinse.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSterilise in hot water\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoil equipment at a rolling boil for 1 minute. Keep the pot covered until you need the \u003cbr\u003eitems and use tongs to remove items. You can re-boil the water and use again.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSterilise in cold water\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse sterilising tablets and soak the cleaned bottles, teats and pump parts for at least 15 minutes, making sure there are no trapped air bubbles. You can keep the equipment in the solution with a lid on it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMake up a new sterilising solution every 24 hours. Use the old solution for washing hands or dishes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you don’t have a bottle, use a sterilised cup and\/or spoon. Let the baby sip, don’t pour formula down baby’s throat. They will need practice. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eMake water safe for preparing formula\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf your usual drinking water supply is not available, make sure your replacement water is safe.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe safest water option to use in an emergency is commercial bottled water that is sealed. If your baby is less than 3 months old you must still boil this water and cool it to room temperature before use. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoil other sources of water for 1 minute for babies of all ages. Boil an electric jug until it switches off, or a stove kettle until it whistles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTaumata Arowai has advice on boiling water: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.taumataarowai.govt.nz\/for-communities\/emergencies\/treating-water\/\"\u003eHow to make water safe to drink under a boil water notice | Taumata Arowai\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse water purification tablets for babies of all ages, but if your baby is under 6 months, check the tablets can be used for this age. Follow instructions on the packet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003ePreparing formula\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFollow the instructions on the tin. Use leftover formula within 2 hours. Wash the bottle and treat with clean soapy water straight after use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eIf your baby is eating solid foods\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIncrease breastfeeding so they need less solid food or breastfeed only.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you are formula feeding, but don’t have enough formula, give more solid food and safe water if your baby is over 9 months.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBefore giving your baby solids, wash their hands or wipe with a baby wipe and then use hand sanitiser.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can use ready-to-eat baby food from the jar or pouch. Once it is opened, give it to your baby straightaway – do not keep for more than 2 hours at room temperature.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can feed your baby with food from the family meal, just make sure the selected food and texture is suitable for the age of your baby. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo not give your baby food that can spoil or become unsafe if it has not been kept chilled. Throw away food past its best-before date.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThrow away high risk food (such as meat, seafood, egg dishes, rice and prepared baby cereals) which have been at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Babies are more at risk from food poisoning than older children or adults.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse only thawed food that has stayed cold. Remember: If in doubt throw it out. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIf your supplies are low or you need help\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAsk neighbours.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eShops might be open but take cash as eftpos may be down.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTalk to Civil Defence in your area or visit your nearest welfare centre \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.civildefence.govt.nz\/about\/contact-us\"\u003eContact Us » National Emergency Management Agency\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePhone Healthline on \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"0800 611 116\" href=\"Tel:0800611116\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e0800 611 116\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eIf you are feeling stressed or anxious\u003c\/b\u003e you can \u003ca href=\"SMS:1737\" title=\"text 1737\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003etext\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"Tel:1737\" title=\"call 1737\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ephone 1737\u003c\/a\u003e anytime to speak to a trained counsellor for free.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"HealthEd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46449856741604,"sku":"HE2910","price":0.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/files\/HE2910thumbnail_b47bd2b3-d6ce-412f-a544-6279cebeffcd.png?v=1766454358"},{"product_id":"mould-after-flooding-preventing-and-cleaning-up-he2912","title":"Mould after flooding - preventing and cleaning up - HE2912","description":"\u003ch2\u003eInformation Sheet\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMould is a sign of fungi growing in damp areas inside and outside the house. Mould produces tiny or invisible spores in large quantities and spores can cause serious health issues if you breathe them in. There is no practical way to eliminate all mould indoors. The best approach is to prevent its growth by controlling moisture.   \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat does mould look like?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMould looks like “fuzz” or a stain, smudge or discoloration. The most common moulds are black, green or white, but can be other colours ranging from grey to orange to brown. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow does mould affect people?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMould can trigger nasal congestion, sneezing, coughing and wheezing, and cause respiratory infections. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePeople with allergies, asthma or other lung diseases or with weakened immune systems may have worsening health if exposed to mould. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eMould growth after flooding\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFlooding, pooled water and excess moisture in a home can cause mould to grow. This may be a health risk for you and your family. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen returning home after a flood, look for visible mould and be aware of any musty smell. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAssume your home is contaminated with mould when: \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eit has been flooded for more than two days \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ethere is water damage \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eyou can see mould \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eyou can smell strong, musty odours. \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeek advice from your insurance company \u003cstrong\u003eBEFORE\u003c\/strong\u003e you start to clean up, particularly before disposing of water or mouldy items. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat should I wear to protect myself in a flooded home? \u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you are visiting your house to collect belongings, inspect for damage or to clean up, it is important to wear protective clothing: \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eoveralls,\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003esturdy waterproof footwear with rubber soles,\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003edisposable gloves, \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eprotective eye goggles or glasses,\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003esuitable face mask, e.g. a P2 or N95 disposal respirator mask.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDrying out a house after a flood\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo prevent mould growth, clean and dry out the house within 48 hours if possible:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOpen all doors and windows to allow fresh air to circulate and dry the house quickly.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRemove any pooled water from the home and fix leaks promptly to stop re-wetting of materials.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAvoid using air conditioning or central heating systems exposed to floodwater until they have been professionally cleaned and electrically inspected.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOnce safe reliable power is restored, use fans and dehumidifiers to extract moisture and speed up the drying process. \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTo prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, never use fuel-powered devices like generators, stoves, grills, or heaters indoors or in enclosed spaces.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSalvageable items, including carpets, rugs, bedding, mattresses, furniture, stuffed toys, and clothing, may be kept if they can be thoroughly cleaned and dried to reduce the risk of mould or contamination. Assess each item carefully for mould or damage.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRemove and discard items that cannot be effectively dried or restored, such as wallpaper and plasterboard. \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRemove wet wall linings like plasterboard, to allow internal wall spaces to dry. \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDisinfect and rinse all surfaces inside the house, including floors and walls, especially in areas like the kitchen, bathroom, and laundry.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStore damaged or discarded items in a clean, dry place, such as a shed or garage, until insurance claims are processed.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eCleaning up mould\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen dealing with large areas of mould, seek advice from a professional mould removal specialist.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSmall amounts of mould can be removed by, firstly using soap and water to clean the surface, then applying a commercial mould removal product or hypochlorite bleach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMix 1 ½ cups of household bleach in 4 litres of water, apply to the affected area and leave for 10 minutes before rinsing and drying. Detergent may also be added to this solution, so it penetrates surfaces. \u003cbr\u003eSome organisations recommend sanitisers other than bleach, but there is no evidence they are any more effective than diluted bleach. These other sanitisers include organic acids (white vinegar) and alcohols (methylate spirits or isopropyl alcohol). \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDo not mix bleach with ammonia, acids or other cleaners – this can release hazardous chlorine or chloramine fumes. Read product labels before use. \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAvoid spreading the mould through areas that are not contaminated. Rinse cleaning cloths often and dispose of in a sealed plastic bag after use.  \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAvoid using water blasters as this can cause mould spores to become airborne.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAfter treating the area and allowing time to dry, vacuum the room using a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtered vacuum cleaner. \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRegularly take breaks and make sure you wash your hands and face with soap before eating, drinking, smoking, or vaping (hand sanitiser may not work on soiled hands). \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf you cut yourself or break the skin, stop work and apply first aid including cleaning the wound. Seek medical attention if you think the cut is deep or have signs of infection.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhen you are finished\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSeal your mask and disposable gloves in a plastic rubbish bag for disposal.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eImmediately wash your hands, arms and face with warm soapy water or shower using soap to remove any remaining mould.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWash all protected clothing separately from regular laundry. Consider wearing a mask and gloves when handling these clothes, especially if they are muddy or dusty.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"HealthEd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46450159911140,"sku":"HE2912","price":0.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/files\/HE2912thumbnail_34350f0b-ba0d-4ad6-a3cb-0b65f630df18.png?v=1766454555"},{"product_id":"volcanic-activity-he2911","title":"Volcanic activity and your health - HE2911","description":"\u003ch2\u003eInformation Sheet\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVolcanic ash, gases and fine particles in the air after an eruption can cause eye, skin and breathing problems for people nearby. Ash can be blown by wind impacting people hundreds of kilometres away.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eKey information\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVolcanic ash\u003c\/strong\u003e is the most likely health hazard for most people as it can travel by wind for long distances.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThose close to an erupting volcano are also at risk from \u003cstrong\u003egases and volcanic smog\u003c\/strong\u003e (VOG) so take extra care when going outside to wear a mask, goggles and long clothing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVolcanic ash or gases require people to stay indoors.\u003c\/strong\u003e Keep taking your medication if you have asthma or other respiratory or heart conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCheck on your neighbours\u003c\/strong\u003e and listen to your local radio station for \u003cstrong\u003eCivil Defence advice.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWatch out for symptoms\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVolcanic ash, gas and VOG (volcanic smog containing hazards like sulphur dioxide) can cause a range of symptoms:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRunny nose.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSore throat, sometimes accompanied by dry coughing.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAirway irritation.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUncomfortable breathing, shortness of breath and wheezing.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eItchy, painful or bloodshot eyes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIrritation and reddening of the skin.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003ePeople at increased risk\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThose most at risk include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePeople with asthma.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChildren and babies.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePeople with chronic breathing (respiratory) or heart (cardiac) conditions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReduce your exposure to ash, gases and chemicals in the air by staying indoors. If you have asthma, gases and ash may worsen your symptoms. Take your prevention medication regularly and keep reliever medication with you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eKeeping safe from volcanic ash\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdvice on what to do before, during and after ashfall is on \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/getready.govt.nz\/emergency\/volcanic-activity\"\u003eVolcanic activity — Get Ready (NZ Civil Defence) — Emergency preparedness in New Zealand\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eBefore ash falls\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eListen to your local radio station and follow Civil Defence instructions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave cover-up clothing, a fitted N95 or P2 mask, if possible, gloves and goggles without side vents.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSave water in a bathtub or containers as it may become contaminated, or the water supply might be cut off.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf you collect rainwater, disconnect your downpipes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eClose windows and doors and seal any gaps with damp towels or tape.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhen ash falls\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGo home if possible and avoid driving or walking.\u003cbr\u003eStay inside, especially children as masks don’t fit them well enough.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKeep pets inside until ash is washed away. Brush them before they come in if they do go outside.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSet up a single-entry point for your house. Place damp towels at the door to prevent ash being tracked indoors.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eShut off any air conditioning or ventilation units and don’t use dryers or exhaust fans.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWear glasses, not contact lenses as trapped ash can scratch your eyes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf you go outside, wear cover-up clothing, gloves, a fitted P2 or N95 mask (or surgical mask) and goggles. Remove outdoor clothing outside.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWash off any ash on your skin.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWash homegrown fruit and vegetables.\u003cbr\u003eAvoid eating ash.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWater restrictions are likely after ash fall. \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/info.health.nz\/keeping-healthy\/protecting-health-natural-disaster\/saving-water-and-keeping-healthy\"\u003eSaving water and keeping healthy\u003c\/a\u003e has advice on how to use limited water for health and hygiene.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eListen to your local radio station and follow Civil Defence instructions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCleaning up\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlease check \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/getready.govt.nz\/emergency\/volcanic-activity#e1132\"\u003eVolcanic activity — Get Ready (NZ Civil Defence) — Emergency preparedness in New Zealand\u003c\/a\u003e for instructions on cleaning up ash.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is important to clean up ash properly as it is a health hazard and can cause damage to buildings and machinery.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou’ll need to protect your skin with clothing that covers your whole body, sturdy footwear, gloves, goggles and a fitted P2 or N95 mask.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVacuum ash up inside and wipe surfaces with damp cloth.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMoisten ash before cleaning it up outside.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOnly connect your roof tank to the downpipe once rain has washed all ash from the roof or you have cleaned it.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFor more information\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVolcanic ash risks and impact areas \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.gns.cri.nz\/our-science\/natural-hazards-and-risks\/volcanoes\/ash\/\"\u003eAsh - Earth Sciences New Zealand | GNS Science | Te Pῡ Ao\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFitting a N95 or P2 mask correctly and protecting yourself from ash, gas and VOG \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ivhhn.org\/ash-protection\"\u003eProtection from breathing ash | IVHHN\u003c\/a\u003e International Volcanic Health Hazard Network \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWater shortages and boil water notices \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.taumataarowai.govt.nz\/for-communities\/emergencies\/treating-water\/\"\u003eHow to make water safe to drink under a boil water notice | Taumata Arowai\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDealing with health risks from ash – Keeping safe from volcanic emissions – \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/info.health.nz\/keeping-healthy\/protecting-health-natural-disaster\/keeping-safe-from-volcanic-ash\"\u003eKeeping safe from volcanic emissions\u003c\/a\u003e Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRestoring your property after fire or ash \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fireandemergency.nz\/home-fire-safety\/in-the-event-of-a-fire\/restoring-your-property\/\"\u003eRestoring your property | Fire and Emergency New Zealand\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf you are feeling stressed or anxious you can \u003ca href=\"SMS:1737\" title=\"text 1737\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003etext\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e or \u003c\/span\u003ephone \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" aria-describedby=\"a11y-new-window-external-message\" href=\"http:\/\/www.1737.org.nz\/\" title=\"1737 free call or text\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e1737, need to talk?\u003c\/a\u003e any time to speak to a trained counsellor for free. \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"HealthEd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46452239139044,"sku":"HE2911","price":0.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/files\/HE2911thumbnail_1f8dcc91-dc8a-4071-abc7-8da8d98009a0.png?v=1766454443"},{"product_id":"cleaning-up-a-flooded-home-he2949","title":"Cleaning up a flooded home - HE2949","description":"\u003ch2\u003eInformation Sheet\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eFloodwater can contain harmful bugs that could make you and your family sick. Assume all floodwater is contaminated with animal and human sewage, farm run-off or chemicals.\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFlood waters, silt and dust can cause diarrhoea, skin, eye and respiratory infections and illness like tetanus and leptospirosis (lepto).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFloodwater may continue to threaten your property. If you have evacuated, only return home after council staff have inspected it for safety and given your permission to return.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou and your family may experience a range of emotions because of the flood. If you need to talk \u003ca href=\"Tel:1737\" title=\"1737\"\u003ecall free\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"SMS:1737\" title=\"1737\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003etext 1737\u003c\/a\u003e anytime or see the Looking after Yourself section at the end.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli style=\"font-weight: bold;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBefore you start and during the clean-up process, follow this guidance to keep you and your family safe. Check your insurance company’s requirements as well. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGetting prepared\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAlways wash your hands with soap and water, and dry them thoroughly:\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAfter handling anything contaminated with floodwater, sewage or silt.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBefore eating, preparing food, drinking, touching your mouth or face, or smoking\/vaping.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDo not allow children to play in areas impacted by floodwaters until clean-up is completed.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse protective clothing: long sleeves and trousers or overalls, rubber or gardening gloves, sturdy shoes or boots and eye protection.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWear a properly fitted mask. P2 and N95 masks are best but surgical masks will help.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCheck with your doctor and ensure your tetanus vaccinations are up to date.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCover cuts or wounds with waterproof dressings. Floodwater and sludge can contain sharp objects. If injured, wash with clean water and soap immediately and apply a clean bandage. Check with your GP or hauora provider if the wound is deep, as you may need a tetanus booster.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf possible, keep animals away from floodwaters.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDrying out your house\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDrain, dry and clean your home as quickly as possible.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAir out rooms each day to reduce dampness.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse a dehumidifier to keep the moisture levels down. Keep external doors and windows closed while it is running.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe clean-up\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFirst wash surfaces and objects with detergent and water.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThen disinfect with two cups (500mls) of bleach to 10 litres of water. Start at the top and clean toilets last. Leave disinfectant on surfaces for 10 – 30 minutes or follow the product instructions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNever mix products and keep out of children’s reach.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eKitchen utensils\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThrow out wooden items (chopping boards and spoons), plastic items, baby bottle teats and dummies, if they have touched floodwater. They can’t be safely cleaned.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWash other utensils in clean hot soapy water and rinse. Disinfect by soaking in two cups of plain bleach in 10 litres of water for a minute. Rinse in safe water. You can boil all utensils for one minute.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSoft furnishings, clothing, blankets and curtains\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGet rid of wet items like carpets, curtains, bedding, toys and clothes unless they can be cleaned and disinfected.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThrow out mattresses or other large items if they have been soaked with floodwater. Foam rubber mattresses and pillows can be washed, disinfected and dried in the open air. Dry cleaners and carpet cleaners may be able to help.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAppliances (fridges, electrical goods)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDo not use electrical products if they have been soaked in water. If unsure, throw out.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGarden produce\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDo not eat garden produce if the soil has been flooded.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eClear any debris and sprinkle lime to stop smells and flies. Lime is sold at your garden shop. Use a fork to make drainage holes for better airflow.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOutside areas\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSun, wind and air are the best ways to dry and disinfect outside areas.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRemove solid materials like sanitary products, toilet paper and faecal matter (poos) and seal in bags.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse a garden hose and broom to wash the outside of the property. Do not use a high-pressure hose or water blaster as they spread contaminants into the air.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRemove contaminated clothing and footwear before going inside and wash your hands immediately.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eClean hard surfaces like concrete with a solution of 1 litre of household bleach in 10 litres. Leave on for 30 minutes, then rinse.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eRemoving silt\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli style=\"font-weight: bold;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSilt may contain faecal matter (poos) and other contaminants that become airborne when dry and a health risk if breathed in.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMove silt away to the edge of your section away from drains, cover the pile if it might dry out. Do not put into your compost.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf you are moving silt, wear personal protective equipment (PPE) – see Getting Prepared section above.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStop work if you find hazardous debris such as cladding or cement tiles which may contain asbestos, chemical drums, or an animal carcass. Contact your local council for advice.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMore information on cleaning up after a flood and removing silt is on the NEMA website: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.civildefence.govt.nz\/cdem-sector\/consistent-messages\/flood\/recovery-what-to-do-after-a-flood\"\u003eRecovery: What to do after a flood » National Emergency Management Agency\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eMould\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf mould has developed on surfaces, clean as soon as possible. Wear protective clothing such as gloves and a mask.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFor large areas of mould, seek advice from a professional mould removal specialist.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFor small areas, use soap and water to clean the surface and then a commercial mould cleaner or bleach (mix 1 ½ cups of bleach in 4 litres of water). Leave for 10 minutes, then rinse and dry.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eMaterials that may contain asbestos\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBe cautious when assessing and working on flood damaged property. Homes, garages and sheds built or renovated before 2000 may have asbestos exposed by flood damage.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAsbestos fibres are harmful when dry and if breathed in. Wear PPE around materials like insulation, cladding, roofing, electrical components, wall linings or vinyl flooring.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAsbestos-containing building materials should be removed by a WorkSafe New Zealand licensed contractor.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eIf you get sick\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFloodwater can cause diarrhoea and vomiting, eye and skin infections and breathing problems. The very young, very old, or those with underlying medical conditions are at higher risk. If you have diarrhoea, drink plenty of water, diluted cordials, and ice blocks are also good.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf any wound or cut looks infected because of redness, swelling or has pus, seek medical attention or phone Healthline on \u003ca href=\"Tel:0800611116\" title=\"0800 611 116\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e0800 611 116\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf you feel unwell contact your doctor or call Healthline for free on \u003ca href=\"Tel:0800611116\" title=\"0800 611 116\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e0800 611 116\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eLook after yourself and others\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou and your family may experience a range of emotions because of the flood, including shock, fear and anger. If you need to talk – \u003ca href=\"Tel:1737\" title=\"1737\"\u003ecall free\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"SMS:1737\" title=\"1737\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003etext 1737\u003c\/a\u003e anytime.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGo to Stress after an Emergency Event– \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/info.health.nz\/keeping-healthy\/protecting-health-natural-disaster\/managing-stress-in-an-emergency#stress-after-an-emergency-event-7822\"\u003eManaging stress in an emergency\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHelp vulnerable people like the elderly.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKeep listening to your radio for instructions, information and advice.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFor more information on floods and health:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/info.health.nz\/keeping-healthy\/protecting-health-natural-disaster\"\u003eProtecting your health during and after a natural disaster\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"HealthEd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47098693877988,"sku":"HE2949","price":0.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/files\/HE2949thumbnail_c6d34ad4-7ba1-4739-8d7b-5560d7568f30.png?v=1766455384"},{"product_id":"removing-lead-based-paint-nphs0065","title":"Safely removing lead-based paint - NPHS0065","description":"\u003ch2\u003eLead poisoning from lead-based paint\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBuildings and houses painted before 1980 can have lead-based paint on their interior or exterior surfaces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you are not careful when removing lead-based paint from such buildings then you or your family can get sick with lead poisoning.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLead poisoning can have irreversible effects on infants and children and have detrimental and lasting health effects on adults.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePeople who might get sick from lead in the paint include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe person removing it (from dust, paint flakes, or fumes)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYoung children who lick or chew painted surfaces, or swallow paint flakes or dust\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYoung children who play in or eat dirt contaminated with lead paint\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePregnant women, and their unborn children, if lead-contaminated dust is ingested during pregnancy.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePets eating dirt, or licking surfaces, contaminated with lead paint can also get sick.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTesting for lead\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can’t see if paint has lead in it just by looking at it. To check if the house you are working on has lead-based paint, you can do a test using a lead-based paint kit. These can be bought from a hardware or paint store.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you are unable to find a test kit, you should assume any homes painted before 1980 may have lead paint.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can also contact your local office of the National Public Health Service who can advise on testing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eProtecting yourself\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen removing lead-based paint:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWear a high quality, properly fitted dust respirator.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePreferably wear disposable overalls (single use).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCover your head to prevent dust, paint chips and paint flakes getting in your hair. Use a disposable hat or hood as part of disposable overalls.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWear appropriate clothing for working with lead-based paint that can be disposed of or removed before entering clean areas.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWash and dry your face and hands before eating, smoking or vaping.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eBefore leaving your work area:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEnsure it is safe and clean from dust and paint flakes. Wrap and bag all waste for safe disposal.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChange out of your overalls\/clothes, and shoes\/work boots.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWash hands and face.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAfter leaving your work area:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWash any work clothing separately from other laundry.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eShower thoroughly to remove dust.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eMethods of removing lead-based paint\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you can, it’s recommended that you use professional painters to remove lead-based paint. However, if you do it yourself, you need to take proper safety precautions to avoid potential lead exposure. All dust and paint flakes should be treated as if contaminated with lead.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe following are some methods available. All of them should be carried out with the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePreferred methods\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWet sanding\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis method involves using sandpaper with water to keep the area wet and stop dust from being generated. This is the best option to reduce dust.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSafety Measures:\u003c\/strong\u003e Clean up any dust and paint flakes with wet cloths. Spray bottles with water can be used to keep areas wet and dust suppressed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eScraping\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDone with specific tools and for larger areas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSafety Measures:\u003c\/strong\u003e Clean up any dust and paint flakes with wet cloths. Spray bottles with water can be used to keep areas wet and dust suppressed. Rubbish should be bagged and disposed of appropriately.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse water to move paint flakes and rubbish together so it can be taken away safely. Stop paint flakes going onto other properties or into drains.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eNot recommended methods\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDry sanding by hand or machine\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis method is \u003cstrong\u003enot recommended\u003c\/strong\u003e due to the high levels of dust created.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSanding machines, such as orbital sanders, disc grinder sanders, pistol grip disc sanders and belt sanders, should be fitted with vacuums where possible and the safety measures should be strictly adhered to.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSafety Measures:\u003c\/strong\u003e If you use any type of machine, wear a professionally fitted respirator. This is important even when using a belt sander with an extraction bag (these are only partially effective). Cover ground\/carpets with a dust sheet. Keep children and pets away from the work area. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eChemicals\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis method is \u003cstrong\u003enot recommended\u003c\/strong\u003e due to the risks of working with potentially harmful and toxic chemicals. It should be done by experienced renovators or professionals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsually used for small surfaces such as window frames.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSafety Measures:\u003c\/strong\u003e Wear safety glasses, overalls, and gloves to avoid contact with the skin. When inside, keep the windows open for fresh air. Follow any instructions on the label.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWater-blasting \u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis method is \u003cstrong\u003enot recommended\u003c\/strong\u003e due to the high levels of dust and flakes created. It should be done by experienced renovators or professionals only and in accordance with WorkSafe and local council rules.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor outside surfaces only.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eAbrasive blasting (Sand blasting)\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis method is \u003cstrong\u003enot recommended\u003c\/strong\u003e due to the high levels of dust created. It should be done by experienced renovators or professionals only and in accordance with WorkSafe and local council rules.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSafety Measures:\u003c\/strong\u003e Dust and paint flakes using this method are hard to control and can create a large contaminated area.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eBlasting with heat\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis method is \u003cstrong\u003enot recommended\u003c\/strong\u003e as heat will produce lead fumes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeware also of fire risk.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn electric paint stripper, hot air blower, or blow torch will heat the paint and blister it, so that it can be scraped off.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSafety Measures:\u003c\/strong\u003e Wear a professionally fitted respirator if using a hot air blower, blow torch, or electric paint stripper. Have a fire extinguisher or water handy in case of fire. If using a blow torch indoors, make sure that windows are open.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSafety tips for removing lead-based paint\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRemove play equipment, pets, personal belongings, bedding and soft furniture before removing lead paint.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCover carpets and floors with drop-sheets to catch paint flakes and dust.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWipe surfaces with a wet cloth to clean dust, paint chips and paint flakes and dispose of it appropriately. A spray bottle with water can be used to suppress dust.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse a commercial vacuum cleaner fitted with a HEPA filter (high efficiency dust filter). Don’t use a vacuum cleaner without a HEPA filter. If you’re unsure, then seek professional advice, or hire a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eClose windows and doors.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWrap and bag waste and rubbish for disposal. Small amounts of paint waste can generally be disposed of with your household refuse, but for large amounts of waste, please check your local council for the best method of safe disposal.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDO NOT burn rubbish, wood or other materials that have been painted with lead-based paint. Fumes containing lead particles can be released into the air and environment.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProtect your garden (especially fruit and vegetables) during paint removal by covering plants and soil, keeping a safe distance, and rinsing anything that may have been exposed to paint dust or debris.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor more information, visit \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/info.health.nz\/health-topics\/keeping-healthy\/healthy-homes-environments\/hazardous-substances\/lead-based-paint\" title=\"Lead-based paint\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eLead-based paint - Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"HealthEd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47328103465188,"sku":"NPHS0065","price":0.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/files\/NPHS0065thumbnail.png?v=1765860842"},{"product_id":"leptospirosis-flood-information-he2966","title":"Leptospirosis flood information - HE2966","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLeptospirosis (lepto) is a bacterial infection caused by contact with the urine (wee) of rodents, livestock, and domestic and wild animals, or contaminated floodwaters or soil. It can get into your body through cuts in the skin, and your eyes, mouth, and nose. The risk of lepto increases after flooding and continues for several months.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSymptoms include\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eFever, headaches, body aches, stomach pain, nausea\/vomiting, diarrhoea, red eyes, cough, rash and jaundice\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStay out of floodwaters where possible. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWear protective gear\u003c\/strong\u003e - closed shoes\/boots, waterproof clothing, and gloves (eye protection and masks if available).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eClean \u0026amp; cover cuts\/scratches\u003c\/strong\u003e - wash with clean water and soap and cover with a waterproof bandage.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAlways wash hands\u003c\/strong\u003e - after contact with animals, floodwater, soil, building materials or other items contaminated by animal urine.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRodents multiply with flooding\u003c\/strong\u003e - keep food, animal feed, and rubbish in closed containers. Use traps, wear gloves when disposing of dead rodents, and wash hands.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSeek help early for symptoms of lepto to prevent longer or more severe illness. Lepto can get worse without treatment and in some cases has caused death. \u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you develop lepto symptoms, contact your GP, healthcare provider or call Healthline for free on \u003ca style=\"font-size: 0.875rem;\" href=\"Tel:0800611116\" title=\"0800 611 116\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e0800 611 116\u003c\/a\u003e and tell them you have had contact with floodwater or animals. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"HealthEd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47512896700644,"sku":"HE2966","price":0.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/files\/HE2966thumbnail.png?v=1769572493"},{"product_id":"taking-care-with-silt-from-flooding-he2967","title":"Taking care with silt from flooding - HE2967","description":"\u003ch4\u003eFloodwaters and the silt they leave behind can be contaminated. They may contain sewage, farm run-off, industrial chemicals, and harmful bugs.\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSilt can also include faecal matter (poos) and bacteria that can cause illness such as diarrhoea, skin infections, and leptospirosis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs flood silt dries, it can turn into fine dust that becomes airborne. Breathing in this dust can irritate or damage your lungs and airways, worsen asthma and other breathing conditions, and irritate your eyes. For these reasons, all flood silt should be treated as contaminated while it remains on your property.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eReduce your exposure at times when there is a lot of dust:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTry to avoid breathing in dust from silt.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStay indoors, close windows, and if you have air conditioning, make sure it is recirculating indoor air and not bringing air in from outside.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDon’t exercise outdoors.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMake sure the places you sleep, eat, and relax are dust free.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWear the right gear when you are cleaning up or moving silt (i.e. masks, rubber gloves, boots, and eye protection). Cover wounds with waterproof dressings.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMore information is in the Te Whatu Ora \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/healthed.govt.nz\/products\/cleaning-up-a-flooded-home-he2949\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Cleaning up a flooded home\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eCleaning up a flooded home factsheet\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eIf you can’t avoid dust:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). This includes wearing a P2\/ N95 respiratory mask, gloves, eye protection, protective clothing and sturdy footwear when cleaning up silt or contaminated soil. A cloth mask, a piece of fabric such as bandana, scarf or strips of old sheets can also help prevent dust from getting into your airways.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChildren should only wear masks if they are older than 2. If they’re younger, do your best to keep them away from dust.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMake sure masks fit correctly. Straps should go above and below the ears.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReplace masks when needed so they keep working properly.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean water after any clean up activities and before eating. Clean and cover any cuts or broken skin.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf you’re driving through floodwater or silt, slowing down can also help reduce contaminated dust in the air and protect others around you.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eIf you can’t get rid of silt straight away:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTry to keep the silt wet if it is creating dust.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWear appropriate PPE when cleaning up silt.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDo not use high-pressure hoses or water blasters. Use only low-pressure water hoses, sweeping damp silt or shovelling it. If high-pressure cleaning cannot be avoided, take extra care with PPE.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMove silt away to the edge of your section, away from drains. Cover the silt to prevent it drying and blowing around.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse barriers to protect the silt from the wind.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDo not put into your compost.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eFor more information\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMore information on cleaning up after a flood and removing silt is on the NEMA website: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.civildefence.govt.nz\/guidance-training\/consistent-messages\/flood\/recovery-what-to-do-after-a-flood\"\u003eRecovery: What to do after a flood » National Emergency Management Agency\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf you are worried about what dust is doing to your health, call Healthline \u003ca href=\"Tel:0800611116\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"0800 611 116\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003e0800 611 116\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"HealthEd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47884408127716,"sku":"HE2967","price":0.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/files\/HE2967thumbnail.png?v=1770602511"},{"product_id":"dealing-with-pests-and-rubbish-in-emergencies-he2968","title":"Dealing with pests and rubbish in emergencies - HE2968","description":"\u003ch4\u003eInformation Sheet\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eManaging pests\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEmergencies, such as natural disasters or other disruptions, make pests a bigger problem. They can spread disease, damage property and contaminate food. Keep things clean, and make sure rubbish and sewage are disposed of properly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse insect repellent to keep away flies, mosquitoes, ticks, and sandflies.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse pest-control products (available from hardware or farm supply shops). Follow all safety instructions to avoid harming people, animals, or the environment.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCall professionals for large pest problems.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse rat and mouse baits safely. Keep all poisons away from children and pets.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGet medical help if you are bitten or feel unwell after contact with pests.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStop mosquito breeding by emptying water from containers outside.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMake sure all food is covered in pest proof containers.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eMosquitoes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEmpty water from containers like pots and buckets.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCover or screen water tanks.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDrain or fill water-logged areas.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRepair leaking septic tanks.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTreat still water with larvicide or light oil to kill larvae.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpray outside surfaces and vegetation where adult mosquitos rest with a residual synthetic pyrethroid insecticide.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFlies\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFlies breed quickly — about one week per cycle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKeep rubbish and manure covered or remove them.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInstall screens on doors and windows.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse fly sprays (e.g., Raid®, Mortein®) for quick control.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApply a residual synthetic pyrethroid insecticide\u003csup\u003e\u003ca href=\"#1\"\u003e1\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/sup\u003e to walls, ceilings, window frames and nearby vegetation.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFleas, Lice, Ticks\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKeep grass short, clear weeds.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVacuum carpets and furniture and wash bedding often.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTreat pets regularly.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse a residual synthetic pyrethroid insecticide\u003csup\u003e\u003ca href=\"#1\"\u003e1\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/sup\u003e on infested areas, clothes, bedding, beds and furnishings.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWash or heat-treat clothing and bedding (at least 60°C or a hot dryer for 30 minutes).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eBed Bugs\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCheck beds and bedding often.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse a residual synthetic pyrethroid insecticide1 for cracks, crevices, bed frames and mattresses (e.g. permethrin, deltamethrin, cypermethrin).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCall pest control experts if needed.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eRodents (Rats and Mice)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStore food securely and remove rubbish.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSeal all holes and entry points.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse traps and baits (e.g. brodifacoum, bromadiolone, difethialone, flocoumafen).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRemove food and water sources.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse pest control experts for large infestations.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eManaging rubbish\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTell your insurance company about any damaged items before getting rid of it. If you are not insured, make a list of any items being dumped. Take photos if necessary to record what you are getting rid of.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRubbish collection may be disrupted, and piles of waste attract pests.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFollow instructions from Civil Defence or your local council on getting rid of rubbish.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSeparate food scraps from non-perishables and compost if possible or keep in a vermin proof bin. Flatten bulky items.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHazardous substances like chemicals should be handled with extreme care. Wear protective gear, avoid floodwaters, and report unknown or dangerous waste (e.g. asbestos) to your local council.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDispose of dead animals promptly to prevent disease and water contamination. Seek advice from your local council on disposal options.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eIf collection is not available\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRemove:\u003c\/strong\u003e take it to a central collection point if one exists.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBurn:\u003c\/strong\u003e Dry rubbish in drums or in a simple incinerator (if permitted by council - concrete blocks, bricks and wire mesh).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStore:\u003c\/strong\u003e rubbish in one place that is shaded and animal proof. Use covered containers or tightly tied plastic bags until collection resumes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFor more information\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eContact your local council\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVisit Health New Zealand website \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/info.health.nz\/health-topics\/keeping-healthy\/protecting-health-natural-disaster\"\u003eProtecting your health during and after a natural disaster\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFor workplace waste visit \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.worksafe.govt.nz\/topic-and-industry\/hazardous-substances\/managing\/hazardous-waste\/\"\u003eHazardous waste | WorkSafe\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp id=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e1.\u003c\/strong\u003e examples of residual synthetic pyrethroid insecticide are alpha-cypermethrin, cypermethrin deltamethrin, permethrin or bifenthrin\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"HealthEd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47920474718436,"sku":"HE2968","price":0.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/files\/HE2968.png?v=1771376323"},{"product_id":"septic-tanks-and-flooding-he1095","title":"Septic tanks and flooding - HE1095","description":"\u003ch3\u003eInformation Sheet\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDuring a flood, septic tanks and the drainage field may be flooded as well. This can clog up pipes which may cause a sewage backup (smelly black liquid) in toilets\/drains. Other signs your septic tank may be affected include slow draining toilets and drains, and a smell of sewage.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIf you’re a septic tank owner and experience any of the above, you will need to arrange a temporary or emergency toilet.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSeptic tanks: What to do\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCheck gully traps for debris and silt and remove material so that it is not flushed into the tank.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCheck outlet filters on the septic tank for clogging and clean or replace if necessary. Flooding of the tank will lift scum and fats that may block the outlet or outlet filter.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEnsure stock cannot access the drainage field.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReduce water usage in your home until the septic tank system restores itself and the water table falls.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you have concerns that the system has become damaged or clogged with silt or debris, we recommend that you have your septic tank and drainage field professionally checked and cleaned. Check online for septic tank contractors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eImportant health tips\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWash and dry your hands, every time, after using the toilet, handling human waste or checking your septic tank system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWet\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSoap\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWash\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRinse\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDry\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDO NOT:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse your septic tank system until the floodwaters over the drainage field have gone.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePump out your septic tank during flood conditions or saturated soil conditions as it may cause the tank to rise out of the ground, damaging the pipework.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAttempt to clean out the septic tank yourself — tanks may contain dangerous gases. Find a septic tank contractor to clean the tank.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDrive or operate heavy machinery over the drainage field as saturated soil is easily compacted — this will reduce the ability of the soil to absorb wastewater.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eDrink water from bores or wells close to flooded septic tank systems until the water has been tested and found to be safe.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFor more information\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf you feel unwell contact your doctor or call Healthline for free 24\/7 on \u003ca href=\"Tel:0800611116\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"0800 611 116\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003e0800 611 116\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKeep listening to your radio for instructions, information and advice\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFor instructions on making an emergency toilet, refer to: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.healthnz.govt.nz\/health-topics\/keeping-healthy\/protecting-health-natural-disaster\"\u003eProtecting your health during and after a natural disaster\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"HealthEd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48008300593380,"sku":"HE1095","price":0.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/files\/HE1095.png?v=1772760513"},{"product_id":"hazardous-substances-risks-in-a-natural-disaster-he1096","title":"Hazardous substances - HE1096","description":"\u003ch3\u003eRisks in a natural disaster\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDisasters like floods and earthquakes can damage storage areas, cause chemicals or gas leaks, or break containers. Hazardous substances are dangerous because they can poison, burn skin, and irritate eyes or lungs. They can also ignite easily or explode when heated.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCommon hazardous substances\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCommon hazardous substances include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBleach and laundry liquids\u003c\/strong\u003e – cause chemical burns and release toxic fumes if mixed with other cleaners, such as ammonia.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGas leaks from pipes or appliances\u003c\/strong\u003e – can cause poisoning, fire or explosions and concentrate in low lying areas.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePetrol, LPG gas, gas cylinders\u003c\/strong\u003e – even small sparks can ignite any leaks.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMeths, turps and paint thinners\u003c\/strong\u003e – poisonous and flammable, igniting easily.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDrain cleaners, pool chemicals and paint strippers\u003c\/strong\u003e – these burn and can damage skin and eyes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGarden chemicals and sprays\u003c\/strong\u003e (e.g. Roundup) – can irritate skins, eyes and lungs, and harmful if swallowed.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAerosol cans\u003c\/strong\u003e – can explode if left in heat (in cars, near heaters, in hot sun).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLithium-ion batteries\u003c\/strong\u003e (rechargeable batteries in electric cars, bikes and scooters, laptops, phones and other portable devices) – damaged batteries can cause fire, explosion or toxic smoke.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe most hazardous substances have a coloured diamond on the container.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eKeeping hazardous substances safe\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSecure them in a locked cabinet, away from heat, where they won’t fall.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKeep them in their original containers – never use food or drink containers.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStore in unbreakable containers with tight fitting lids and keep out of reach of children.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStore petrol, LPG and solvents away from the house, if possible.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNever mix chemicals such as bleach with other cleaning products.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKnow how to turn off your gas supply.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNever charge a battery-powered device that’s been damaged or exposed to water.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat to do in a hazardous substance leak or spill\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf there’s a major leak or spill, Civil Defence or FENZ may tell you to evacuate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf a lithium-ion battery is smoking, hissing, swelling or giving off fumes, call 111 immediately.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor smaller leaks or spills:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReport the hazard to Police, FENZ or Civil Defence.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMove away from the source, preferably to higher ground, upwind.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf you smell gas or see fuel, avoid using vapes, phones, switches, or any electrical devices.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDo not light matches, candles, or cigarettes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf the leak is inside, ventilate by opening doors and windows if safe.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLeave the building and contact emergency services or your gas provider from outside.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf the leak is outside, close the windows and stay inside.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eAvoid exposure to hazardous materials\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAvoid wading through floodwaters without wearing protective clothing and footwear.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStop clean up if you find debris that might be hazardous like cement roofing or cladding (see asbestos advice overleaf), chemical drums or animal carcasses.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDisposing of hazardous materials\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNever dispose of damaged lithium-ion batteries in your rubbish.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReport unknown or dangerous waste including asbestos to your council.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eContact council for disposal advice for your area.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWear protective clothing and gloves if handling these materials.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAdvice for clearing damaged materials that may contain asbestos\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAsbestos may be present in homes built or renovated between 1940 and 1990, especially in insulation, exterior cladding, cement roofing, textured ceilings, wall linings and vinyl flooring. It’s most dangerous when dry as fibres become airborne. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAsbestos should be removed by a WorkSafe licensed contractor. If this is not possible during clean up, follow the safety steps in \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.worksafe.govt.nz\/topic-and-industry\/asbestos\/asbestos-in-the-home\/\"\u003eAsbestos in the home | WorkSafe\u003c\/a\u003e:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWear a \u003cstrong\u003eP1 or P2 respirator\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003edisposable hooded overalls, gloves,\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003eshoe covers.\u003c\/strong\u003e Seal and dispose of them in double bagged rubbish bags afterwards.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKeep materials \u003cstrong\u003edamp\u003c\/strong\u003e and avoid \u003cstrong\u003ewater blasters\u003c\/strong\u003e or \u003cstrong\u003esanding.\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse plastic \u003cstrong\u003esheeting\u003c\/strong\u003e to protect surfaces and seal windows and doors.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlace asbestos waste in \u003cstrong\u003eheavy duty sealed bags\u003c\/strong\u003e labelled 'asbestos'. If unavailable, double bag and seal carefully. Contact your council for disposal advice. \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFor more information on hazardous waste\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eContact your local council\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGuidance on asbestos in your home is on the Health NZ page \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.healthnz.govt.nz\/health-topics\/keeping-healthy\/healthy-homes-environments\/hazardous-substances\/asbestos\"\u003eAsbestos\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.worksafe.govt.nz\/\"\u003eWorkSafe\u003c\/a\u003e has advice on workplace disposal – search ‘hazardous waste’ and ‘asbestos’\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.healthnz.govt.nz\/health-topics\/keeping-healthy\/protecting-health-natural-disaster\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"HealthEd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48187356938468,"sku":"HE1096","price":0.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/files\/HE1096_e238949f-b9ea-47a1-a063-b09c560ee87d.png?v=1773268465"},{"product_id":"accessing-health-services-in-natural-disasters-he3300","title":"Accessing health services in natural disasters - HE3300","description":"\u003ch4\u003eDuring floods, earthquakes, fires, volcanic activity or other emergencies\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEmergency – dial 111.\u003c\/strong\u003e If someone is seriously ill, injured or in immediate danger, call \u003cstrong\u003e111\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFor urgent health advice\u003c\/strong\u003e contact your usual family doctor, pharmacist, Hauora or Pacific provider, if they are open and you can call.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNot an emergency? Call Healthline on 0800 611 116\u003c\/strong\u003e (24 hours, 7 days) for free health advice from health professionals. This advice includes where and when to go for assessment and treatment if that is what you need. Healthline has interpreters and Māori clinicians available 8am to 8pm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSeeing a doctor\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCall your GP or healthcare provider to make an appointment.\u003c\/strong\u003e An urgent appointment may be available if you explain what’s wrong.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNot enrolled or can’t see your regular provider?\u003c\/strong\u003e Visit a local urgent care centre. You do not need an appointment, but you might have to wait.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFind an urgent care centre at \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/healthpoint.co.nz\/gps-accident-urgent-medical-care\/\"\u003eGPs \/ Accident \u0026amp; Urgent Medical Care • Healthpoint\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNon-urgent care, online consultations are available 24\/7, with subsidies for some people. Visit \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.healthnz.govt.nz\/online-phone-healthcare\/online-gp-care\"\u003eOnline GP Care\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHealthline on \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"0800 611 116\" href=\"Tel:0800611116\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e0800 611 116\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e can provide advice on your medication, or if you’re away from your home, you can’t access your doctor or you are not enrolled. Healthline advice is available for New Zealand citizens, residents and overseas visitors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf power or internet outages prevent online booking, Healthline can help arrange appointments by phone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnline consultation subsidies are available for:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChildren under 14 years\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYoung people 14 to 17 years\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCommunity Services Card (CSC) holders.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDeaf, disabled people and their whānau\u003c\/strong\u003e can call the Disability Helpline \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"0800 11 12 13\" href=\"Tel:0800111213\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e0800 11 12 13,\u003c\/a\u003e \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"text 8988\" href=\"SMS:8988\" target=\"_blank\"\u003etext 8988\u003c\/a\u003e or use \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.nzrelay.co.nz\/index\"\u003eNew Zealand Relay Services\u003c\/a\u003e available 24\/7.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePrescription medication\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you evacuate, take your medication with you. Ask your pharmacist if your medication is okay to use if it is no longer kept chilled.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you finish your medication or can’t access it, contact your doctor to get a new prescription. If you cannot see a doctor, contact a pharmacy for advice. Pharmacists may provide up to a three-day emergency supply, although this may be expensive as there is not government funding for this. F\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFind a pharmacy at \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/healthpoint.co.nz\/pharmacy\/\"\u003ePharmacy • Healthpoint\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIf the power goes out\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStoring medication safely\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKeep refrigerated medication in a chilly bin or insulation bag with ice packs.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDon’t let the medication touch the ice or gel packs as freezing can ruin some medicine, like insulin.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf power is out for more than 3 days, contact your pharmacy or family doctor for advice about whether your medicines are safe to use or provide emergency supplies.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePowered Medical Equipment\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you have medical equipment that needs power to run, you should be registered with your electrical retailer as medically dependent on electricity. Your equipment provider does this. If you are not sure if you are registered, check with your equipment provider.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou should have a backup plan for power outages, such as:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ea generator,\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003estaying with a friend or relative\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ean alternative power source.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuring a power cut you should contact your power company if you don’t have a plan and need power for medical equipment, medications or life support.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf this does not work, contact your equipment provider. If it is a life-threatening emergency \u003cstrong\u003ecall 111. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWellbeing\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSee \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.healthnz.govt.nz\/health-topics\/keeping-healthy\/protecting-health-natural-disaster\/managing-stress-in-an-emergency\"\u003eManaging stress in an emergency\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFeeling stressed or anxious during an emergency is normal. Talking to people and helping others can be very useful.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFree mental health support,\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Call 1737\" href=\"Tel:1737\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ecall\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"text 1737\" href=\"SMS:1737\" target=\"_blank\"\u003etext\u003c\/a\u003e Need to Talk? on 1737 anytime to speak to a trained counsellor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eMore support\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLocal free face-to-face mental wellbeing support at \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.healthnz.govt.nz\/health-topics\/mental-health\/where-to-get-help\/wellbeing-support\"\u003eWellbeing support\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSleep advice during challenging times at \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/healthify.nz\/hauora-wellbeing\/s\/sleep-tips\"\u003eSleep tips | Healthify\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHelping children cope at \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.kidshealth.org.nz\/coping-with-a-natural-disaster\"\u003eCoping With A Natural Disaster | KidsHealth New Zealand's Trusted Voice On Children's Health\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMental wellbeing resources at \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/getready.govt.nz\/emergency\/mental-wellbeing\"\u003eLook after your mental wellbeing — Get Ready (NZ Civil Defence) — Emergency preparedness in New Zealand\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"HealthEd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49491398525156,"sku":"HE3300","price":0.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/files\/HE3300_90761fed-4349-4543-a55a-113e58f4c6b7.png?v=1784860728"},{"product_id":"he3364","title":"HE3364 - Legionnaires' disease social tile","description":"\u003ch2\u003eKeeping yourself safe from Legionnaires' Disease\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere are 6 steps you can follow when working with bulk loads or bas of compost and potting mix:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWork outside.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMask up.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWear gloves.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCut (don't rip).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDamp it down.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWash you hands.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eRelated resources\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/healthed.govt.nz\/products\/he3363-legionnaires-disease-a4-poster?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=8075fea63\u0026amp;_ss=r\"\u003eHE3363 - Legionnaires' disease A4 Poster\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/healthed.govt.nz\/products\/safer-and-healthier-gardening?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=162265384\u0026amp;_ss=r\"\u003eHE4605 - Safer and Healthier Gardening\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"HealthEd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":67416596742372,"sku":"HE3364","price":0.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/files\/HE3364_Legionnaires_disease_socialtile.jpg?v=1790828497"},{"product_id":"he3363-legionnaires-disease-a4-poster","title":"HE3363 Legionnaires' Disease A4 Poster","description":"\u003ch2\u003eKeeping Yourself Safe from Legionnaires’ Disease\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLegionella bacteria can be commonly found in bulk loads and bags of compost, potting mix and soil and can cause Legionnaires’ disease.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLegionnaires’ disease is a flu-like illness that can develop into severe pneumonia and could be fatal.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere are 6 steps you can follow when working with bulk loads or bags of compost and potting mix:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWork outside\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlways work outdoors when using compost or potting mix. A fine day with light wind is best.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eMask up\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePut on a well-fitting face mask with clean hands. An N95 or respirator is best.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWear gloves\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWear gloves when handling compost and potting mix.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCut (don’t rip)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOpen bags of compost and potting mix carefully using scissors and open them away from your face.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDamp it down\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWet the compost or potting mix before handling to reduce dust\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWash your hands\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after the work is done.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eRelated resources\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/healthed.govt.nz\/products\/he3364?_pos=9\u0026amp;_sid=b3d3d5a01\u0026amp;_ss=r\"\u003eHE3364 - Legionnaires' disease social tile\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/healthed.govt.nz\/products\/safer-and-healthier-gardening?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=162265384\u0026amp;_ss=r\"\u003eHE4605 - Safer and Healthier Gardening\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"HealthEd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":67416691605732,"sku":"HE3363","price":0.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/files\/HE3363Legionnaire_sDiseaseposterthumbnail.jpg?v=1790829745"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0102\/6916\/3582\/collections\/environmental-health.jpg?v=1593506284","url":"https:\/\/healthed.govt.nz\/collections\/topic-environmental-health.oembed?page=2","provider":"HealthEd","version":"1.0","type":"link"}