Tackling a project by yourself? Make sure you take these safety precautions.
Whether you are an experienced DIY-er looking to brush up on your safety or a novice DIY home improvement-er trying to figure out how to stay safe while getting the job done, this collection of safety tips for DIY home improvement will keep you feeling safe and accomplished for the duration of your project.
Stay Alert and Sober
Hopefully this seems obvious, but the most important thing you can do before starting your DIY home improvement project is ensuring that you are sober and awake before ever picking up the paintbrush (or handsaw). Alcohol is a major factor in over half of the accidents that end in the emergency room. Even just one beer has an effect on your body, immediately starting to impair your balance, dehydrating you, and limiting your judgment. Staying awake and alert is just as important. If you find yourself wiping sleep out of your eyes after a long day at work, the last thing you should be doing is starting up your table saw.
Get the Right Protective Gear
Wearing the right protective gear is crucial when staying safe during DIY home improvement projects. Keep your eyes safe from debris, dust, or sharp objects by wearing protective eye goggles. If you will be using any harsh chemicals or anything that emits potentially harmful fumes, remove contacts and slip on a pair of glasses instead. Avoid wearing loose clothing that can get caught in machinery. Make sure that you wear sunscreen, a hat, and long pants and a shirt if you are working outside for long periods in the sun.
Step on the Ladder Safely
Ladders are very dangerous, and taking a few safety steps in advance can prevent a nasty slip or fall during your DIY home improvement project. Make sure that you have the right ladder for your job, whether it’s working on top of your roof or working on your exterior landscaping. A properly sized ladder should be a couple inches higher than what you are trying to access. Always place the ladder on dry, flat land and use a spotter on the ground to keep you (and the ladder) safe.
Fisher Lumber for All of Your DIY Home Improvement Project Needs
Fisher Lumber and Hardware has served homeowners and contractors in the Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Northern Virginia areas since 1894. We have excellent lumber, all of the building materials you need, top-notch tools, and the expertise to help you pick the right supplies for your project. Give us a call at 301-424-6500 or visit us online for more information. To see more tips for your DIY project, visit us on Facebook, Pinterest, Google+, Houzz, and Twitter!