Ten Simple Tips for DIY Safety at Home

There is no greater feeling in life than when you save a couple of bucks and also do amazing (and successful) DIY home project. That satisfaction is something that money can never buy. DIYing is not only a fun hobby that enables you to sharpen your skills with practice, but it is also an excellent way to add value to your property by making your home a haven, where you can joyfully spend time with your family.
Avoid DIY Related Accidents and Enjoy Your Family Project with These Easy-to-Follow Tips:
Even with all the glam and fun, it is essential to note that these DIY projects do not come without risk. There are multiple hazards you need to be aware of including falling off a ladder, being electrocuted or cut by power tools.
So, to that effect, here are ten reliable and straightforward tips to help you reduce the risks and enjoy your creative, home project moment:
- Do not over stress yourself. Ensure that you tackle only those tasks that you feel secure handling. Leave the jobs that require professionals to the highly qualified persons.
- Ensure that you set up a safe and clean working space. When you keep your workspace tidy, you reduce any inherent risks significantly. Working on DIY home projects can quickly become a mess, mainly when you are focusing on the job at hand. Cleaning up after a long day of work is imperative – use an air purifier to clean the air (especially if you have been painting or using strong smelling chemicals such as turpentine). Additionally, make sure you vacuum thoroughly to ensure that the space is clean and that you have removed all the nails and sharp debris so that the area is safe to use.
- Make sure the drill bits, blades, and cutters are sharp. Using dull tools requires you to use extra force and thus making them dangerous.
- Ensure that you avoid going up the roof in extreme weather situations. Also, avoid going up on the roof if it has a pitch that is steeper than 5 in 12. Pitch expresses the angle of a roof’s slope. To find a roof’s pitch, measure how many inches it rises vertically for every 12 inches of horizontal distance. A 6-in-12 pitch takes up 6 inches vertically for every 12 flat inches of run.
- If you are working on gas pipes, be EXTREMELY careful. In fact, think twice before operating on them. These kinds of tasks require an expert. If you, however, have the know-how, make sure you test for leaks by brushing a solution of soapy water onto connections. Escaping gas will create bubbles. Remember that gas is explosive! So, DO NOT use a flame to test for leaking gas.
- Always keep a good first-aid kit at hand. A first aid kit comes in handy when they are minor accidents. So make sure you stock it and within your reach.
- If you are using a ladder, make sure you position it on a flat and firm surface.Moreover, if you are climbing or reaching for your roof, ensure that you keep your weight centered. Also, make sure that you do not lean to one side; ensure that you put your hips between the rails and never stand on the top two rungs.
- Make sure you dress for the job at hand. Avoid flip-flops, clothes with sleeves, heels or unstable shoes and shorts. Sturdy clothing, protective composite toe work boots, and gloves will protect you for most DIY projects. Also, put on a pair of safety glasses whenever you use power tools, hammers, or other striking or cutting tools.
- Read the owner’s manual keenly. When deciding to use any power tool, it is wise to make sure you follow all precautions stated in the manual, and not your own incite. Always unplug the appliance before you adjust it and when done with the task.
- Make sure you keep the power tools and supplies away from the reach of small children.
These 10 simple tips will go a long way to ensuring that you stay safe while doing DIY at home. It’s easy to take shortcuts and skip some of the steps, but if you’re serious about avoiding accidents (both for yourself and your family) you can count on them to do the job. DIY should be fun and by putting these tips into practice you can make sure that it stays fun!
About The Author: James Blake is the Marketing Manager at My Best Work Boots, a leading online resource specializing in reviews and buying guides for work boots. He offers in-depth advice on what boots to buy, where to use them and where to find the best prices. Connect with him on Facebook and Twitter!
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