Information for Tenants Legionnaires’ Disease

We would like to take this opportunity to make you aware of the possible causes and symptoms of legionella so that you can report any concerns you may have to us.

What is legionnaire’s disease?

Legionnaires’ disease is a potentially fatal form of pneumonia caused by legionella bacteria. It is caused by the inhalation of small droplets of water from a contaminated source containing legionella bacteria.

Who is at risk?

While anyone can catch legionnaires’ disease, those with existing health conditions will be more susceptible to infection. Legionella is not contagious, and you cannot get it from drinking water.

The symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease are like those of flu:

• High temperature

• Tiredness

• Muscle pain

• Dry cough

• Fever or chills

• Headache.

What precautions can you take?

There is no need for concern. Legionnaires’ disease is rare and preventable by taking the following simple precautions:

• Keep taps clean and free from a build-up of mould or algae growth.

• Regularly clean and disinfect mist producing devices in your home (shower heads, humidifiers, hot tubs).

• Flush shower heads and taps for 10 minutes following a period of non-use (i.e. after you have been on holiday or if the room is not in regular use).

• Keep hot water on your boiler system at a minimum of 60 degrees.

If you feel you might be affected

If you suspect any member of your household has contracted Legionnaires’ disease, contact your doctor immediately. You should also contact us to allow us to investigate and undertake any remedial work.

Our latest development in Ayr’s Carrick Street is progressing well with the interior of the flats currently being worked on. Brick planters are taking shape in the courtyard. We expect the development to be ready by August 2023. Most of the properties have been allocated, with a proportion going to the Health and Social Care Partnership.

It has been a tough year for everyone with the continual rise in energy and food costs. Over the past few months we have managed to secure almost £100,000 in external funding. Tenants have been able to access these funds through a range of projects.

How the funds have been spent:

 SFHA Fuel Hardship Fund - Winter Pack Project - £54,000

 National Lottery Tenant Support Fund£20,000

 SFHA Food Insecurity Fund - £16,600

 EVH Cost of Living Grant - £2,500

 VASA Cosy Spaces funding - £4,600

Our free Wednesday Welcome club is taking a break and will return on 26 July with a ‘family fun’ event. We will provide details of this soon.

Battery and Charger Safety

We’ve compiled some information below on how to use chargers safely. For more tips please visit www.firescotland.gov.uk

Always use the charger that came with your phone, tablet, e-cigarette or mobile device.

If you need to buy a replacement, always choose a branded product from a supplier you can trust. There are lots of fakes out there, and it can be difficult to spot the difference.

Avoid storing, using or charging batteries at very high or low temperatures. Don’t leave items continuously on charge after the charge cycle is complete – it's best not to leave your phone plugged in overnight for example. Don't overload your sockets.

While barbecues should never be used on balconies, they can be used safely in outdoor communal areas provided these points are observed.

 Ensure the barbecue is strong, sturdy and in good working order.

 Place it on level ground to avoid it tipping over.

 Keep it well clear of any trees, shrubs or flammable objects.

 Keep children and animals well away.

 Never pour on petrol or other accelerants.

 Never leave the barbecue unattended.

 Keep a bucket of water or sand close by.

 Ensure the barbecue is cool before attempting to move it.

The recent hot weather has meant that we are able to spend more time outdoors. It’s important to be mindful of your neighbours during the long evenings. Any nuisance caused by you, your family or visitors, is a breach of your tenancy agreement. We ask you to:

 Be conscious of noise levels (especially early in the morning and late at night).

 Take responsibility for your children, pets and any visitors to your home.

 If you live in a flat, close gates and security doors behind you. This will create a safer environment for all your neighbours living in the block.

 Avoid driving or parking your car in a way that would endanger or interfere with others.

Tips for a safe BBQ

Our Good Neighbour Award is still running. Get in touch if you think your neighbour deserves a special prize! 01292 880120