Staying Safe Doing DIY*

If you read my blog a lot, you might have seen I wrote a post recently about some of the home goals I want to achieve this year (if you’re new to the blog, then hi, and you can catch up here). I’m looking forward to getting started on the projects I have (you know, once the weather gets better); except for one major flaw in my plan. I’m so clumsy. And until I moved in with J, I wasn’t particularly savvy at staying safe while attempting DIY projects! But he’s taught me a hell of a lot in the last three years.

And according to a recent survey carried out by Slater & Gordon*, 29% of 35-44 year olds are currently planning DIY projects in the home (which is at an all-time high! Go DIYers!!)

So because I now have a lot more common sense when it comes to doing DIY, I thought I’d share my top tips, in case you’re planning your own project.

• Always use the right tools for the job; don’t try and make do as it won’t work and you could seriously hurt yourself!
• Don’t ever try and rush through a job, take your time and you’re a lot less likely to have an accident!
• If you’re using any power tools (tools that plug into the mains) always use a power breaker which plugs into the socket first. You can then plug the tool into the breaker. That way, if the worst should ever happen and you cut through the cable, the power will immediately be cut off and you probably won’t electrocute yourself. I learnt this handy trick when attempting to mow our lawn for the first time!
• Never drill or hammer nails near light switches or electricity sockets as you never know quite where the electricity cables will be behind the wall. If you absolutely have to do it, invest in a live wire detector to be sure!
• Oh and while we’re on the subject of drills, always make sure it’s turned off before changing the attachments!

• Always put your ladder on a flat surface, don’t try and wing it, you will end up falling off and scraping your arm or leg (or worse!)
• If you’re washing down walls, don’t leave bowls of water near anything electrical.
• If you have mild mould on the walls, you can use a mould remover to get rid of it, just remember to wear a protective mask and gloves!
• If you’re sanding walls, always wear a protective mask; especially if you’re not sure what your walls are made of!
• Make sure that if you’re sanding or painting rooms that they’re well-ventilated. Try and open a couple of windows if you can.
• Never smoke next to anything freshly painted, you don’t want the fumes to catch fire!

• Never leave cables trailing on the floor, you will trip over and you will be holding an open tin of paint or a cup of tea!
• If you can, wear protective gloves when doing DIY, and if not, take off any rings, bracelets or watches so they don’t get caught on anything.
• Never attempt to try and do any electrical or plumbing work yourself; always hire a professional!!
• When you’re finished, pack all the tools and equipment away safely!

Do have any DIY projects on the go at the moment? How do you stay safe? Let me know in the comments below 🙂 x

*This was a collaborative post with Slater and Gordon. Views and DIY skills are mine. Infographic belongs to Slater and Gordon.

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