Keep The Noise Down

NOISE can cause disruption and distress to everyone - at home, at leisure, at work and at studv. There is no doubt that our capacity to make noise is increasing. National research has shown that noise control officers across the UK think that incompatible lifestyles and high expectation of quiet are the reasons for complaints. Everybody is urged to consider the noise they make and the effect it has on others and use practical solutions to address everyday noise problems.

The following tips will help prevent noise pollution:

Muffle the Music: Amplified music is the most commonly complained about noise - keep the volume down and keep speakers away from partition ,walls, floors and ceilings

Barking Dogs: A barking dog is lonely, bored or unhappy. If you have to leave your dog, make sure it has bad enough exercise. If necessary leave the radio on to keep it company and get a neighbour to look in.

Think about Flooring: Before sanding your floors or laying laminate flooring, consider the layout of roams and the effect on lower neighbours, especially if you have young children or a dog.

Noisy Appliances: We all use noisy appliances around the home - operate them at sensible hours to reduce disturbance. Make sure washing machines and fridges are away from party walls and on a mat or carpet to reduce vibration.

Alarms: Alarms can be very annoying. Make sure it is properly fitted and has a cut­out device. You should be able to register a key holder with the environmental health service and the police - this will save your neighbours trouble and  expense if your alarm goes off while you are away.

DIY: Do noisy jobs when it will least disturb your neighbour and not late at night. If you warn them in advance they are less likely to complain.

Party Peace: If you have a party; warn your neighbours in advance. Keep windows and doors shut and if someone complains turn the volume dawn.

Mobile Phones: Use the vibrate mode and test. Be considerate of others when in trains, restaurants and other public places.