As a homeowner, you may be a home improvement enthusiast or want to do it yourself to save money for your home renovation project. However, as you may have realized, several risks can lead to injury or even death. For instance, you may need to climb a ladder, use a chainsaw, or move heavy furniture.
Here are 13 safety tips that may help you navigate through the potential dangers of DIY home improvement.
1. Put Safety In the First Place
Keep in mind that your safety should be the first place when doing your home improvement projects. Think of it like this: if you’re not safe, the project can’t be done at all. So you’ll be aware of how you should prepare before DIY, what you can do, what you shouldn’t do, what could go wrong, and how to avoid it during the work.
For example, if you’re using power tools, know how to use them safely. Or, if you’re working up high, make sure you know how to use a ladder safely. It’s all about knowing the risks and being ready for them. That way, you can finish your project with the lowest chance of any accidents or injuries.
2. Know Common Injury Reasons
Understanding the prevalent causes of injuries during home renovations can significantly lower your risks. Falls from heights, such as ladders and roofs, cuts from sharp objects, and injuries from power tools are common. Being aware of these risks allows you to take preventive measures to avoid them.
3. Plan Your Project Carefully Before DIY
Planning is like drawing a map for your DIY adventure. You can keep your project in order and avoid unexpected surprises with a bit of planning.
Before you dive into your project, take a moment to think about each step. What materials will you need? What steps will you take? And don’t forget to think about what may go wrong. Having a good plan means you’ll be ready for everything and anything.
For example, knowing what tools and materials you need before you start means no rushing around later. A smooth, well-planned project is a safe project.
4. Stay Alert and Sober In Your DIY
Staying alert and sober is important when handling DIY projects. As you know, substances like alcohol will impair your judgment, coordination, and reaction times, which increases the likelihood of accidents. Therefore, you should always be in a stable and alert state, especially when handling power tools or working in potentially dangerous conditions.
5. Create a Safe Workspace
Preparing a safe workspace will help avoid potential risks you may not see. Place every tool and material has its place. It is easy to understand that a clean, well-lit space makes everything easier and safer. Make sure you can see what you’re doing by using bright lights, especially in spots that are usually shadowy.
Meanwhile, keep your workspace tidy. Move things out of the way so you don’t trip over them.
6. Wear Proper Gear
Appropriate protective gear, such as protective eyewear, gloves, dust masks, and sturdy shoes can safeguard you against various potential hazards. Each piece of protective equipment serves to shield a specific part of your body from possible harm.
7. Choose the Right Tools
You need to select an appropriate tool for a specialized type of DIY job. However, if there is no such one in your hand, and you think something similar is also workable, avoid substituting tools for ones they weren’t intended for, as this can lead to unexpected accidents.
A simple example is like using a bread knife instead of a saw to cut wood might result in slips and potential injuries.
8. Know Your Tools Before Handling
Your projects are done by you and your tools. So, having a good understanding of your tools is like knowing your teammates in a game. Before you start, take a moment to get to know each tool. Read the manual – it’s like the tool’s instruction guide, telling you all its functions and how to use it safely.
9. Watch Out for Electricity
Electricity is the most dangerous if it causes an accident, as it can lead to serious injuries or even be fatal. When you’re using tools that need power, always be super careful to avoid shocks. Make sure your workspace is dry because water and electricity are a dangerous mix. Also, be aware of where all the wires are, so you don’t accidentally cut or touch them.
10. Don’t Rush the Job
You may do your DIY projects only on the weekend, so you want to speed through your project. But imagine building a puzzle; if you rush, pieces may not fit where they should, and the picture won’t come together right. The same goes for your project.
Taking your time ensures that every “piece” or step in your project fits perfectly and safely. It’s not a race, and going slow helps you avoid mistakes and accidents. So, take a breath, slow down, and enjoy the process of creating something with your own two hands.
11. Don’t Work When Tired
Tiredness can slow down your reaction time, which is dangerous for jobs that need focus. When you’re tired, you may make mistakes or even accidents. You need to make sure you’re well-rested before you start working on your tasks. So you can give it your full attention and keep things safe.
12. Know Your Limit
Some home improvement jobs really need a professional to do them as some of them like electrical work or structural changes, can be complex and risky. It’s okay to admit when something is beyond your skills and call in an expert. After all, a professional has the right tools and knowledge to get the job done safely and correctly.
13. Emergency Prepare
In case of injury or accident happens, it’s crucial to have a plan in place.
Having things like a first aid kit and a fire extinguisher nearby, and knowing how to use them, means you can quickly deal with any unexpected problems. And always have a phone handy to call for help if things go wrong.
Being prepared for emergencies doesn’t mean you expect them to happen – it means you’re ready to keep yourself and others safe if they do.
