Blind and Curtain Cord Safety for protecting children
Take these four simple steps to ensure that blind and curtain cords/chains are out of reach of children, particularly from children under six.
1. Check your blind and curtain cords
• Check for loose or looped cords that your child can reach from the floor or by climbing on furniture.
• Immediately tie cords out of reach and move away any furniture children might climb on to reach them.
• Do this anywhere you are staying, including on holiday.
2. Secure your cords out of reach
• Buy cleats or tensioning devices for securing cords from a hardware store or curtain and blind shop.
• Use screws to fix each cleat or tensioning device in a place that is out of reach of children.
• Never secure these devices with materials that may fail when a load is placed on them, such as double-sided tape or glue.
• If you cannot fix your unsafe cords and chains out of reach yourself, get a reliable tradesperson to do it for you. If you are renting your home, seek help from your landlord or agent.
3. Choose safe blinds and curtains. Buy new curtains and blinds which:
• comply with the national mandatory standard
• have warning labels to remind you of dangers to children
• provide a way to secure cords/chains so there are no loops or strands that children can reach, or
• operate without exposed cords/chains.
4. Keep children away from all cords/chains
• Move anything a young child can sit in, stand or climb on (like cots, highchairs, beds, sofas, tables, chairs and bookshelves) away from cords/ chains—even those tied around a cleat, as your child may be able to untie them.
• Do not let children play near cords/chains they can reach.
• Never leave children alone in a room with cords/chains they can reach.
Poll: Should all neighbours have to contribute to improvements?
An Auckland court has ruled a woman doesn’t have to contribute towards the cost of fixing a driveway she shares with 10 neighbours.
When thinking about fences, driveways or tree felling, for example, do you think all neighbours should have to pay if the improvements directly benefit them?
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82.1% Yes
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15.2% No
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2.7% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
Should You Stay Home During Open Homes or Private Viewings? 🏡🤔
Should You Stay Home During Open Homes or Private Viewings? 🏡🤔
When you list your home for sale, you might wonder: should you be there during inspections? While it’s your home, many agents suggest stepping out during these moments.
Here’s why:
1️⃣ Protecting Your Peace 🛡️
Selling a home is an emotional journey, and potential buyers often share candid opinions about your home. While their feedback can be valuable, it might feel personal when you’re nearby. Stepping out helps you avoid any unintended stress or discomfort.
2️⃣ Creating a Comfortable Atmosphere 🌟
Buyers want to imagine themselves living in your home, and that’s easier to do when they feel at ease. Your presence, even with the best intentions, might make them feel like guests rather than potential owners.
💡 Pro Tip: Take a break—go for coffee ☕ or enjoy a walk in the park 🌳 during inspections. It can make a big difference for everyone involved.
Have questions about selling your home or real estate in general?
Let’s connect—I’d love to help! 😊