Top safety tips for DIY around the home

Planning on kitting out the bathroom with a new vanity? Updating the paint in the lounge? Adding a water feature to the garden?

No matter the kind of DIY project that you have planned this winter, there are a few tips you should follow in order to make sure you keep safe - and your home looks fabulous.

Wear personal safety gear

Make sure you have the right tools for the job. If you are after a professional job, it is essential to follow all the tips a professional would.

This means wearing a safety hat, goggles, shoes, overalls. gloves, dust masks and ear protection where appropriate.

Be cautious around ladders

If you are climbing up a ladder, make sure you look after yourself. If you feel you need to reach up high or overextend yourself, you may be better off hiring more specialised equipment such as a cherry picker.

When you use a ladder, make sure that you keep three points of contact with it at all times. This means two hands and one foot when climbing and two feet and one hand when working.

Keep the space free from clutter

Anything left on the ground can be a hazard as you can easily trip over cords, tools or any other items.

Make sure you pack everything away after you use them and ensure cords are tucked away out of harm's reach.

Choose appropriate tools

Make sure the equipment you are using is in tip top shape. An easy way to accomplish this is to hire the tools you need- this way you know they've been treated well.

Look out for the small things

Make sure that all nails are hammered in all the way and ensure the little things are taken care of.

While it might not seem important to cross your t's, it is an easy way to make sure the job's been done well.

Know your capabilities

Make sure you are not planning any projects that are too difficult as you may injure yourself and cause damage to your property.

Where possible, don't hesitate to call in the experts for advice.

Be careful or dust, gases, fumes and smoke

Some DIY projects can unearth asbestos. This is one of the instances when it is best to call in a professional as they would have been trained how to best deal with this potentially harmful product.

Other items associated with DIY can also cause problems as paints, glues, wood produce and concrete can also contain harmful substances.

It is best to choose non-toxic items where possible, but if you can't make sure the area you are working in is well ventilated and that you wear appropriate respiratory protection if you need it.