Summer is a great time for getting jobs done. But even though the weather is pleasant, you still need to stay safe when you DIY at home. So here are some tips for keeping out of harm’s way.
Always Use the Right Tools for the Job
It is absolutely vital that you always use the correct equipment and tools for any DIY job. Using tools for something they weren’t designed for is a surefire way to destroy your project. Or worse, you could hurt yourself or someone else. For example, if you are handy enough to tackle a plumbing job, you know you need the right tube benders like those from plumBOSS. Additionally, consider any safety gear you might need for a particular job. Heavy-duty gloves, eye protection and steadying equipment, are all part of a successful DIY job.
Ask for Help if You Need It
There are many home DIY jobs that you can do alone. But some require more than one set of hands. Under no circumstances is it advisable to tackle a two-person job alone. Not only will you put yourself at risk, but you are almost guaranteed to botch the job. And this will cost time and money. Neither of which are in abundant supply these days. If your new flat-pack, self-assembly wardrobe from a Swedish store says two people are required, then get on the phone and call a buddy. You can get the job done right and have a cold beer afterwards.
Stay Safe When You DIY with Sun Protection
With the Summer weather in full swing, you might want to get outside and do some DIY. Perhaps fix the roof, finish the gardening or work on your hobby car. Either way, you need to protect yourself from the sun. Since the early 1990s, melanoma rates have soared to almost double. Melanoma is a type of skin cancer you get from the sun’s UV rays. Fortunately, all you need to do is apply good quality sunscreen to your delicate skin. It doesn’t cost much, and it takes seconds to apply. So don’t be silly about it, and save yourself a miserable diagnosis.
Have a First Aid Kit Handy
Of course, you can’t completely avoid hurting yourself when you DIY. Accidents do happen. But you can help yourself by keeping a first aid kit nearby in case anything goes wrong. For example, you might get distracted by your beautiful partner walking by and hammering your fingernail. We’ve all done it. Following such a DIY faux pas, you will need an antiseptic wash and a plaster. Neither of which anyone just has lying around. But a good first aid kit does. They’re cheap to buy, and you can save yourself a trip to the hospital with prompt treatment.
Be Prepared for Fire
Fire can be a genuine risk depending on what you are working on. Paint fumes can ignite. As can certain solvents. And if you have even done any welding, then you know the risks there. But summer can also increase the risk of fire when it’s hot and dry. Even on your own lawn, as the increase in wildfires over the past few years has shown us. So always carefully follow the directions on any packaging, and pay attention to your surroundings. Invest in some home fire extinguishers and fire blankets in case of fire. Just be sure to buy different coloured devices.
Summary
It’s vital that you stay safe when you DIY at any time of the year. But summer also brings its own risks. So use sunscreen if working outside, and invest in fire suppression devices just in case.
