Using home power tools safely

Hand and power tools are a common part of our everyday lives and are present in nearly every home. These tools help us to easily perform tasks that otherwise would be difficult or impossible. However, these simple tools can be hazardous and have the potential for causing severe injuries when used or maintained improperly. Special attention toward hand and power tool safety is necessary in order to reduce or eliminate these hazards.

• Overloaded sockets. Avoid overloading a socket or an electrical circuit. Fires can occur when overloaded wires become hot.
• Cables. Ensure the cable run is kept well out of the way from the cutting blade. Do not use equipment with a damaged cable.
• RCD. Seriously consider the addition of a circuit breaker.
• Safety Wear. Always wear the appropriate safety equipment for the tool e.g. Goggles, safety gloves, etc. No loose clothing.
• Fingers. Keep finger well clear of any cutting blade. Always use devices such as g-clamps to hold pieces being cut.
• Instructions. Always follow the manufacturers instructions for the tool to be used.

Child safety around the garden

Keeping children safe in all aspects of life is important, but this especially applies in the garden. Unfortunately, many people are unaware of the potential dangers lurking in the garden environment. From drowning in ponds and harmful plants or insects to accidents and misuse of tools, garden dangers are real and should be a cause for concern. Teach children how to prevent these hazards by educating them on garden safety.

Make sure your kids know good plants from bad ones. Teach them never to eat any plants without the explicit consent of an adult. Point out any unsafe plants that may sting or prick them in the garden and elsewhere, such as rose bushes, holly and cactus plants. In fact, it may be a good idea to avoid these plants altogether if you have young children.

Teach children about bees and other stinging insects, including caterpillars, and how to avoid them. They should be made aware of their habitats and favourite hangouts as well. Explain to children not to touch or swat at these creatures. Also, make sure children always wear shoes outdoors and in the garden. Do not let them wear bright clothing or fragrances, which can attract stinging or biting insects.

Do not use power tools or lawnmowers when children are nearby. Likewise, don’t leave garden tools unattended. While it’s ok to provide them with tools of their own, be sure they are specifically designed for children and only used with adult supervision. Teach children the proper way to use them and when, and put them up after each use, teaching your children to do the same. Always help children if sharp tools are to be used, such as pruning shears.

Although it’s better for everyone, especially the environment, not to use chemicals pesticides or fertilisers, if you must do so keep them away from children. In fact, lock them up.

Be cautious when it comes to staking up plants and using structures like trellises. Use tall stakes rather than small ones to prevent accidents or injuries. Children love to climb. Make it clear that only suitable play structures, such as monkey bars, may be used for climbing. Do not allow climbing on structures such as fences, or trellises, which can lead to falls and other accidents.

Finally, always encourage children to wash their hands after being outdoors and in the garden. Germs are the number one cause for many illnesses.

One of the easiest ways to instil garden safety in children is to start teaching them the basics at a young age and throughout their growing years. Try to be creative and keep the learning process fun. For instance, create a chart using pictures of safe and unsafe garden practices. Take them on frequent nature trips to help them become familiar with local plants and insects. Anything that you can think of that might strike up interest in your kids will help. After all, no one knows your children better than you do.

Gas Safety – Carbon Monoxide

In 2005/06 16 people died from carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning caused by gas appliances and flues which had not been properly installed or maintained.

Many others also suffered ill health. When gas does not burn properly, as with other fuels such as coal, wood or oil, excess CO is produced which is poisonous.

You can’t see it, taste it or smell it but CO can kill without warning in just a matter of hours.

Make sure your central heating boiler is maintained annually by British Gas or another CORGI-registered engineer. As a second line of defence, fit a British Standard approved carbon monoxide detector with an audible alarm.

Any member of the family can be affected by carbon monoxide, even household pets. The symptoms, which can often be confused with other ailments like flu, are:

• persistent headaches
• dizziness
• extreme tiredness
• sickness

If these symptoms occur, particularly when using a gas heating or hot water appliance, stop using the appliance and get it checked by a British Gas engineer or another CORGI registered engineer. Alternatively, call Transco Gas Emergency line on 0800 111 999.

It might also be a good idea to consult a doctor.

British Gas can supply carbon monoxide detectors – go to: www.house.co.uk/safety if you would like further information or would like to buy one. They are also available in hardware stores, but please make sure you get a British Standard approved detector with an audible alarm.

Carbon Monoxide Alarm £9.75