Keep Mosquitoes at Bay

If you are travelling in a malarial zone, a mosquito net is vital. It is said that mosquitoes have killed more people than war. Mosquitoes feed on the blood of humans. As they move from host to host, they can take blood born diseases with them. Dengue fever, Ross River Fever, various forms of encephalities and malaria can be transmitted by mosquitoes. According to the Centers for Disease Control, mosquitoes kill 2 million each year. It is particularly tragic that most of these deaths are children; their young bodies unable to put up much of a defence against the onslaught.

Bell nets are probably the most recognisable form of mosqutio nets. Suspended from a ring, they fan out to cover your bed. For bell, box and wedge nets which require hanging, the necessary hanging kit is supplied. All that is required is somewhere to attach them (e.g. a hook, beam or cord).

Freestanding nets pop up like tents and can be used by those out camping or who don't have somewhere from which they can hang a traditional net.

Those who are moving around and/or don't necessarily know where they will be sleeping, compact mosquito nets are ideal. Whilst products large enough to cover even double beds are available, their design means they can be collapsed down small enough to be stored in a compression bag. They are small enough to be carried in backpacks or hand luggage; the perfect choice for those off travelling the globe or trekking around Africa.

It is the recommendation of the World Health Organisation that all those travelling within malarial zones take with them a mosquito net impregnated with a strong insecticide. Long Lasting Impregnation (LLI) kills mosquitoes as soon as they land on the net. The LLI lasts for 2 years, after which it can be impregnated with commercially available anti-mosquito treatments. Reimpregnation is a simple process that can be carried out at home. Draw the net through a solution of the anti-mosquito treatment and leave to dry.

Mosquitoes are a particular problem at night, but are actually active for the whole period between dusk and dawn. If you are planning activities during the early morning or evening, it's still important to keep yourself protected by mosquitoes. You may be up and moving, but that won't stop them trying to bite. Head nets are made of a fine mesh that offers you clear vision while also keeping the mosquitoes off your face.

Of course, mosquitoes can be a pest even if they are not carrying dangerous diseases. For that reason, some mosquito nets are available in non LLI versions which are suitable for using in the UK and other non malarial areas.

If you're travelling in sub-Saharan Africa, Asia or the Americas, it's very important you take a mosquito net with you. Whether you're staying in a double bed in a single hotel or hiking through the mountains, sleeping beneath the stars every night, there's a net suitable for your needs. Malaria is a terrible problem, but there are simple steps you can take to avoid the worst of it.

Structured Cabling for all your technology needs!

Always having those annoying technological problems with your phone system or internet? Is swearing at your tablet a daily occurence? Well, things get better. Data cabling equpiment and services can speed up your connection and reduce hitches.

Do you remember the 1990s? Back when the Internet was new and exciting (or the sole retreat of spotty youths, depending on your viewpoint). Do you remember the first time you Googled something? Or bought something off Amazon? How exciting and novel it all seemed that all these sources of information and commerce just seemed to be out there somewhere. Those days have gone. The pressure for better connectivity has seriously increased and become a high priority amongst both internet and network cabling providers. Fibre Optic Cabling is one of the most recent and vast becoming popular, must have choice for internet users, due to its far faster connection speeds and carrying capacity rather than twisted pair conductors, DSL or coaxial cable. The fibre optic data cabling is a particular technology that uses glass threads to submit data. The cable allows high speeds and reduced data loss over greater distances, therefore improving your network cabling system. Fibre optic cables come in two different types to suit your internet needs, single mode and multi mode. A multi mode cable can transmit data up to lengths of 300m at 1000 mega bites per second and single mode cables can be used when even larger distances are needed!

If you don't buy the right network cabling when setting up Internet access then your connectoin will inevitably suffer. It can, however, be difficult to know which is the right one, as the range of Ethernet cables continues to increase. The average person is advised to install either a CAT5 or a CAT5e cable, as they provide up to 350m. However, for those who need higher speeds it would actually be more beneficial to opt for the CAT6 cable, with up to 550m or even the new CAT7 cable with up to 1000m.

Most people will opt for BT when setting up a new phone linebecause they are the most familiar. It's understandable; there are enough headaches when you are moving house or office and the fewer you make for yourself the better. However, did you know there are dozens of service providers all with offers, such as free installation, free call outs and often even cheaper rates? The types of phone systems businesses can choose from include the simple analogue/PSTN, a simple phone or fax line designed for receiving just one call at a time, ISDN2 - similar to the basic analogue line, only this can receive two calls as opposed to one. Alternatively there is the option of the ISDN30; often used for slightly larger businesses this system has a minimum of 8 channels and a maximum of 30. And there are just as many handsets out there to choose from. For instance, the new Toshiba Strata CIX40 is perfect for smaller or start up companies, featuring a state of the art voice mail system, with 360 mailboxes and 40 hours worth of storage, allowing businesses to present a highly professional image towards their clients, no matter what their size.

How to Choose a Curtain Pole

A good curtain pole will change the way your curtains hang, enhancing the look of your room. Buying a curtain pole may not be as straightforward as you first thought; they can range between straight plastic poles with rings to a curtain track with automatic closing and opening on a light sensor.

Curtain poles can be both manually operated and cord-operated, poles with rings or gliders, or even electronically operated for home protection and convenience. Curtain rails can be bought in different materials and colours to complement a room; either coloured plastic, or wood or metal with a different finish (paint or varnish). Whichever material you use for your track or pole, it is important that it will support the weight of the curtains which will hang from them; it might be better to splash out on a high quality pole which will last for years.

Corded tracks work differently to simple poles with rings as they allow the opening or closing of the curtains by pulling a nylon cord which works on a system of gliders and pulleys. This stops you having to handle the curtain, which will shield delicate fabrics from damage. Pull-cord openings are also useful if the curtains are particularly tall and difficult to manage. Buying a spray-lubricant will make sure that the tracks work as efficiently as poles with rings.

Electronically operated curtains are an alternative to manually operated poles with rings or cord-operated curtains, but are more expensive. They provide similar advantages as corded tracks, but can be remotely controlled by a controller, light sensor or timer. The latter two enable the opening and closing of the curtains when nobody is in the home, adding to home security.

Whichever style of curtain pole you choose it is important to make sure the size and shape are right. Curtain rails come in different sizes, so measuring the window area is essential. Measure the recess width of the window with a metal tape measure, and note the figure down. Also choose the number of centimetres you will need either side of the window for when your curtains are open, you will need this so the curtains do not restrict daylight once open. The number is usually around 15cm to 20cm on each side, but may need to be more for wider or thicker curtains. Add twice this width (once for each side) to the width of the actual window to get a total. This will give you the minimum length required for your new curtain rail. Extra wide windows will need multiple rails combined together by a joiner or good curtain rail retailer. Bay windows are all different shapes and sizes, meaning that measuring is more difficult. You will need to add the depth of your bay to the total length of the rail, but it is most likely that the rail will need to be adjusted to measure by the retailer, or, if you are handy, bent and cut at home.

You can give poles with rings a number of unique features to add to the look of the room. Finials and midials can be bought in different materials and effects to finish the look of your window, as can curtain ties or hold-backs.

Measuring up for a curtain pole and choosing a style to suit

A good curtain pole will transform the way your curtains hang, improving the whole look of your room. Purchasing a curtain pole may not be as straightforward as you first thought; they can range between straight plastic poles with rings to a curtain track with automatic closing and opening on a light sensor.

Curtain poles can be both manually operated and cord-operated, poles with rings or gliders, or even electronically operated for home protection and convenience. Curtain rails can be bought in different materials and colours to complement a room; either coloured plastic, or wood or metal with a different finish (paint or varnish). Whichever material you use for your track or pole, it is important that it will support the weight of the curtains which will hang from them; it might be better to splash out on a top quality pole which will last for years.

Corded tracks work differently to simple poles with rings as they allow the opening or closing of the curtains by pulling a nylon cord which works on a system of gliders and pulleys. This avoids you having to handle the curtain, which will shield fragile fabrics from damage. Pull-cord openings are also practical if the curtains are particularly tall and difficult to manage. Purchasing a spray-lubricant will guarantee that the tracks work as efficiently as poles with rings.

Electronically operated curtains are an alternative to manually operated poles with rings or cord-operated curtains, but are more expensive. They offer similar advantages as corded tracks, but can be remotely operated by a controller, light sensor or timer. The latter two enable the opening and closing of the curtains when nobody is in the house, adding to home security.

Whichever type of curtain pole you choose it is important to make sure the size and shape are right. Curtain rails come in different sizes, so measuring the window area is essential. Measure the recess width of the window with a metal tape measure, and note the figure down. Also decide on the number of centimetres you will need either side of the window for when your curtains are open, you will need this so the curtains do not restrict daylight once open. The number is usually around 15cm to 20cm on each side, but should be more for wider or thicker curtains. Add two times this width (once for each side) to the width of the window to get a total. This will give you the length required for your new curtain rail. Extra wide windows will need multiple rails joined together by a joiner or good curtain rail retailer. Bay windows are all different shapes and sizes, meaning that measuring is more difficult. You will need to add the depth of your bay to the total length of the rail, but it is very likely that the rail will need to be adapted to measure by the retailer, or, if you are handy, bent and cut at home.

You can give poles with rings a number of unique features to add to the appearance of the room. Finials and midials can be found in different materials and effects to complete the look of your window, as can curtain ties or hold-backs.

Time to Upgrade your Car Stereo System! Does your Car Stereo System have the Correct Accessories?

A person’s car is often considered as their pride and joy, something which gives a person mobility and essentially gets them from A to B. Several people these days spend more time periods in the car than in front of the TV consequently, there’s no surprise we all want the latest add-ons and gadgets installed into our cars. All of us have all endured those unpleasant, far from exciting journeys to and from work and replacing your car stereo system may not seem like a basic need, but if it makes those tedious journeys faced each day more pleasant, it’s well worth investing in a new gadget for your pride and joy.


Choosing your new car stereo system may not be the easy and simple procedure you think it is. With all the current music devices on offer nowadays, you'll want to choose a stereo system that meets your requirements. For example, do you know some in car stereo systems currently additionally have the accessibility to also play DVDs, access your music via a USB stick or have voice triggered controls? If you're the owner of an IPod, MP3 player or have a phone with these gadgets integrated, you will need to make sure the stereo you decide on has an AUX socket, allowing you to connect and listen to your MP3’s with the use of an AUX lead.


Whether or not you want a fancy loud based stereo system to pump out your much-loved music or just a bog standard radio/CD player, it’s important you're aware of what accessories your car requires to install your new gadget to prevent yourself from getting ripped off by the company or garage installing your new device. All cars require what is known as a fascia panel in order to fit an in car stereo; this is the casing that will hold your new gadget securely in the dashboard and can be obtained at a affordable price from all good car accessory manufacturers, most stores will sell these panels for all make and model cars and will additionally stock different colours to match your car interior and new stereo system. Purchasing a fascia panel will mean that despite owning a fancy looking stereo system, your car will still retain its original appearance, an important factor to keep in mind if you’re ever planning to sell your car.


Once you have purchased your car stereo system and add-ons, it’s now time to install your new equipment. In order to save money, there are several comprehensive video manuals online that instruct you in installing your stereo. Although, providing you pick a reputable, premium quality manufacturer to purchase your equipment from, they will usually offer to install your system for a small supplement or occasionally free of charge.

Escape the worst of the winter in a fabulous red sea resort

Why not get away from the dreary winter climate in the exotic red sea holiday resort of Sharm El Sheikh? Temperatures along the red sea can reach highs of 25 degrees, much more tempting than the freezing temperatures and severe conditions of wind, snow and rain that we’re predicted here in the UK this winter. Sharm El Sheikh, located along the red sea coast of Egypt has something for everyone on offer. Kick back and relax beside the impressive pools and white sandy beaches or for the more daring type, enjoy the variety of exciting water sporting activities and desert trips to choose from.

The Savoy Hotel Sham El Sheikh, located on White Knight Beach, is the perfect choice for your red sea winter break. The luxury 5 star, all inclusive holiday resort is situated in a beautiful, tropical location, complete with its own private beach and based just a quick transfer away from the main airport. The Savoy is the ideal option for both couples and families, with the Scooby-Doo kids club and extensive vicinity, displaying its own square full of bars and restaurants! You’ll be spoilt for choice with the Savoy’s wide variety of trendy bars and dining places, including eight al la carte styled restaurants, each specialising in providing different types of meals from all around the globe, it’s not surprising this hotel is renowned for its fine cuisine!

When relishing the amazing red sea winter sunshine, The Savoy has 3 main swimming pools, two of which are heated, along with two additional children’s pools. The outdoor area also features a hawaiian styled pathway full of waterfalls leading right down to the hotel’s own private beach. For those wanting a more active break, The Savoy has several water sporting activities on supply from para-sailing, water skiing, wind surfing, canoeing and snorkelling within the close by reef. The hotel also has its own diving centre, as the red sea is renowned as being one the greatest place to scuba dive, due to the beautiful colours of coral reef and marine creatures, its well worth having a go.

Within the hotel itself there are 406 exceptional rooms, from single, double and family room selections, with pool and sea views, or why not select a royal suite, for people who really want to holiday in style. The hotel also has a state of the art gym, Jacuzzi, sauna and health centre, offering a free treatment for every guest during their holiday.

Forget awkward and cheesy entertainment during your holiday at The Savoy, the hotel presents an extraordinary disco area, designed in the style of an ancient roman arena. If your stay covers Christmas or New Years Eve, the hotel is also offering a fantastic gala evening event, so your conventional winter holidays will never be forgotten.

Training for Manual Handling at Work

If you are a business owner, make sure your employees undertake manual handling training. In the UK, you are obliged by law to ensure anyone in your organisation who undertakes manual handling should be properly trained. Over a third of all injuries which result in someone being off work for more than one day are the result of poor manual handling. That’s a lot of sick pay and a lot of work that has to be covered.

Manual handling at work tutorials offer not just coaching, but context. The presentations begin by detailing how your back functions, so you can better appreciate how and why inadequate manual handling damages it. Description is coupled with stories from spine experts and those that have harmed their spines through poor manual handling.

First, you need to know, appreciate and assess what you are about to do. You will be taught what you need to check, what you need to think about and which questions you need to be asking yourself before you carry out any form of manual handling. From there, it’s an easy to follow step-by-step guide which shows you exactly how to go about each stage of the task.

Manual handling at work can take a number of forms. The study course gives you suggestions and shows the exact concerns of each . For anyone who is lifting a heavy box down from height then you need to make sure you don’t drop it and hurt yourself, whilst also making sure taking the strain of the weight isn't going to lead to injury to your spine. Other designs of manual handling which are discussed include lifting from floor, waist and shoulder height, team lifts, pushing and pulling.

Each section of the training programme is followed by a 20 minute test to check each individual understands the subject. Once the test has been completed to a satisfactory degree, there is a printable certificate for each individual to show they have completed their manual handling training.

Whether at home, work or play, it's important to understand proper manual handling. It’s not just at work that we move things. Plenty of day-to-day activities can be fraught with the danger of back injury if carried out incorrectly. Carrying a pet, emptying the wardrobe, pushing a car on a cold morning. They all involve manual exertion and the potential for injury.

The manual handling training course only takes half an hour to finish and can be carried out online or on CD-ROM. A free trial is available without necessity for credit card details; which means you have the freedom to walk away if it’s not for you. Before you do, just consider the time, money and spines that may be saved if a bit of time is invested in ensuring that you know what you are doing.