by Brian | May 7, 2025 | Emergency Plan, First-Aid, Tips
When floods, storms, or other crises hit Papakura, most of us instinctively check on physical safety first. Yet our minds need care just as urgently. Psychological First Aid (PFA) is a simple, evidence-informed way any resident can ease distress, restore a sense of...
by Brian | Apr 30, 2025 | E-Waste, Fire, Tips
The recent massive fire at a recycling plant on Hillside Rd in Wairau Valley is a good reminder of the dangers e-waste fires pose to our community. Over the past three years Tāmaki Makaurau has logged eight large fires at scrap-metal or recycling yards, plus dozens of...
by Brian | Apr 3, 2025 | Disasters, Emergency Plan, Tips
[This article was written using information obtained from an AEM presentation entitled “Lesser-known hazards of Tamaki Makaurau Auckland” during the first annual Community Civil Defence and Emergency Management Forum held 29 March 2025.] When most of us think about...
by Brian | Mar 7, 2025 | Fire, Tips
Why is smoke from fires dangerous? Smoke contains hazardous chemicals that can be more harmful than flames. Inhaling it, even briefly, can cause severe health issues or death. Fires involving materials like lithium batteries or older buildings may release additional...
