Helping you to become a DIY hero

DIY has been a growing trend over recent years, with people rediscovering the joy of creative projects that can improve their homes.

But before you crack on, we’ve got some tips to help you avoid any mishaps and keep you and your family safe.

Ladders

If you’re going to be working at height, check your ladder is in good shape. Are any of the steps cracked or missing? Are the feet broken or worn?

If it’s a stepladder, give the locking mechanism a once-over and check that the platform lies flat. If there are any issues, it’s time to think about investing in a new one.

To get started, place your ladder against something solid and work to a 4-to-1 ratio. So, if the bottom of the ladder is 1 metre away from the wall, the top of the ladder should rest at a height of around 4 metres.

Position the ladder so you don’t have to stretch far to either side. This might mean moving it regularly as you work, but avoiding a tumble far outweighs the extra effort.

Keeping both feet on a single step will help you stay balanced. So too will sticking to the middle of the ladder, rather than trying to work off the top few steps. If you can get someone to hold the ladder, that's even better.

Power tools

Power tools are fantastic for making light work of tough jobs. But before you dive in, make sure your tools are in good working order and you’ve got the necessary blades, drill bits and fittings.

If you need to carry tools up and down a ladder, it’s better to put them in a bucket, rather than carry them by hand. Remember not to leave tools resting at height. They’re heavy and could give you or someone else a nasty knock if they fall.

Power tools sometimes jam and can throw you off balance, so make sure of your footing before you get started. As you work, keep an eye on fingers and thumbs and make sure they’re well away from moving parts.

Electric cables

The big hazard here is tripping. Watch for wires catching around your feet or getting snagged. If you’re using an extension lead, only unwind as much as you need to stop any surplus getting in the way.

Before any of that, check cables aren’t cut or frayed and won’t give you or anyone else an electric shock.

Clothing

When it comes to clothes, think practical. Loose-fitting tops or trousers can catch on things or even get wrapped up in power tools.

Flat shoes with a decent grip will help you avoid slips and trips. Depending on the project, it's also worth considering gloves and safety glasses.

While you’re focusing on the job, don’t forget about other adults or children (or pets) who might be nearby. If you can cordon off your workspace, it will stop any accidental bumps or tumbles.

Whatever project you’ve got planned, remember that time spent in preparation is never wasted. So, give yourself a few extra minutes to make the necessary checks. Once you’re finished, you can sit back and admire your handiwork!