“You can do it. We can help.”  That slogan is part of a powerful ad campaign Home Depot recently launched to inspire do it yourself home improvement.  The idea behind DIY projects is to get your desired results at a fraction of the cost of hiring professionals.

 

While the idea of tackling a project all by yourself can be intoxicating, safety should be your primary concern.  Every year, 70 people are killed and 250,000 are injured carrying out do-it-yourself work according to DIYnot.com.

 

DIY Safety – Be Realistic

As confident as you feel about building, fixing, or installing something yourself, you should be realistic about your DIY mission.  Before diving into a DIY project, take a moment and consider the following questions:

 

Do you have time?   Don’t underestimate how long a project could take.  Be prepared to spend as much time as necessary completing your DIY project.

Do you understand what is involved?  Do your homework before starting any DIY project.  Find out if you will be working with blades, heights, power tools, or toxic material.  Know what supplies you will need and safety precautions you will need to take.

Do you have the right tools?  Few things are as frustrating as being knee-deep in a DIY project and realizing you don’t have what you need to finish it. Take a thorough inventory of your tools and make sure you have what you will need to complete the project.

Do you know how to use the necessary tools?  Just because you own a blow torch doesn’t make you qualified to use it.  Read instructions and manuals carefully before using new tools.

 

Do It Yourself – Do It Safely

In general, you should avoid working with electricity or gas unless you have the proper training.  However, once you decide to undertake a project yourself – no matter what sort of task it is – concentrate on DIY safety. 

 

DIY safety tip #1:  Keep your toolbox and workspace tidy.  Many DIY accidents occur because someone trips over misplaced tools and equipment.

DIY safety tip #2:  Wear the appropriate clothing for your DIY project:  sturdy shoes, gloves, goggles, a mask, or a helmet if necessary.

DIY safety tip #3:  Use the buddy system.  Many “DIY” projects require a second set of hands.  Also, working with someone else goes a long way to ensure your safety.

DIY safety tip #4:  Keep any necessary tools clean and in good repair, and use tool cover guards on sharp tools like saws, chisels, or knives.

DIY safety tip #5:  Read instructions, manuals, and warning labels carefully before starting a project.

DIY safety tip #6:  Use extreme caution when working with or around electricity.  Stop and disconnect all electrical appliances and tools before investigating electrical trouble.  Never overload a socket or let coils or cords become kinked.

DIY safety tip #7:  Keep children and pets away from your DIY project.  Also, keep your tools and supplies out of their reach.

DIY safety tip #8:  Store all products in their original containers.  That way, you eliminate the risk of forgetting what a product is or storing it in an unsafe container.

DIY safety tip #9:  Be prepared for an emergency.  Test your fire extinguishers, and make sure you have a well-stocked first aid kit, and updated emergency numbers on hand before starting a DIY project.

DIY safety tip #10:  Be careful during clean up for a DIY project.  Dispose of chemicals, paints, and other supplies as directed.  Be good to environment.