- Hidden dangers at home: Over half (55 per cent) of all accidental deaths occur at home, with falls, poisonings, and burns being the most common.
- Garden and DIY safety tips: Use a residual current device (RCD) with electrically powered tools, store chemicals securely, and ensure play equipment is safe and well-maintained.
- Personal warning about serious consequences: Brian’s story underscores the importance of caution and proper safety measures when using garden equipment, as accidents can lead to severe injuries.
As the Bank Holiday approaches, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) has released a range of tips to prevent accidents for those planning on taking up DIY, gardening or general household chores over the long weekend.
RoSPA’s recent ‘Safer Lives, Stronger Nation’ report revealed that over half (55 per cent) of all accidental deaths occur at home, compared to just 0.6 per cent at work, and contribute to costing the UK £12 billion annually, including £6 billion in NHS medical care.
The most common domestic accidents are:
- Falls: 3,148 (40 per cent)
- Accidental poisoning: 2,686 (34 per cent)
- Other accidental threats to breathing (e.g., suffocation, strangulation, and choking): 259 (3 per cent)
- Exposure to smoke, fire, and flames: 142 (1 per cent)
- Exposure to inanimate mechanical forces (including being struck by an object, crushing, and cutting injuries): 46 (1 per cent)
Brian’s Story
Brian Whitnall, 50, a sales manager for a printer and photocopier company, has shared his experience to highlight the importance of safety in the home setting. On a warm Sunday, while using his Flymo lawnmower, Brian stepped backwards and tripped over his grandson’s trampoline stairs.
He slipped on water from a paddling pool, causing him to fall and accidentally bring the lawnmower towards himself. Brian suffered severe injuries, losing two toes and requiring multiple surgeries. His story underscores the need for caution and proper safety measures when using garden equipment.
Speaking of his accident, Brian Whitnall said: “I’m so careful now doing anything remotely risky around the house.
“We tend to do things like mow the lawn or climb on chairs or ladders on autopilot, but every task is done now with a lot of thought and consideration. I was very lucky that I didn’t chop off my entire foot.”
Adrian Simpson, Head of Policy at RoSPA, said: “Brian’s story is just one example of the thousands of accidents that occur in homes across Britain every year.
“Whilst we rally the government to take on board the asks in our recent Safer Lives : Stronger Nation report , we advise anyone looking for tips on staying safe – be it in the home, at leisure or at work – to get to grips with our learning resources and advice that can be found online.”
RoSPA’s key tips for having a safe Bank Holiday
Falls
- Use stable ladders and step stools: When working on DIY projects or gardening tasks that require reaching high places, ensure ladders and step stools are in good condition, and placed stable on level footing. Avoid overreaching and always maintain three points of contact whilst up ladders.
- Clear pathways: Keep walkways and stairs free of clutter, tools, and garden equipment to avoid tripping. Regularly check for uneven surfaces and repair them promptly.
- Install handrails: For outdoor steps and garden paths, install handrails to provide support and reduce the risk of falls.
Accidental poisoning
- Store chemicals safely: Keep all gardening chemicals, pesticides, and cleaning products up high in a secure, locked cabinet, out of reach of children and pets. Clearly label all containers.
- Enviro-friendly options: Consider replacing toxic/corrosive substances with products that can do the same job but are less harmful to humans and corrosive substances with products that can do the same job. But are less harmful to humans / animals and kinder to the environment.
- Follow instructions: Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using chemicals and pesticides. Wear appropriate protective gear, such as gloves and masks, to avoid exposure.
- Dispose of chemicals properly: Dispose of unused or expired chemicals according to local regulations to prevent accidental poisoning.
- Poisonous plants: Check the garden area for any plants that may be poisonous to children
Using tools and electrical equipment
- Use protective gear: When working with power tools or performing DIY tasks, wear protective gear such as safety goggles, gloves, and ear protection to prevent injuries from flying debris or loud noises.
- Check equipment: Regularly inspect garden tools and DIY equipment for damage or wear. Replace or repair faulty items to ensure they are safe to use.
- Use tools correctly: Always use tools as intended and follow safety guidelines. For example, use long-handled tools for barbecues and avoid risky manoeuvres on trampolines.
- Be mindful of weather conditions: Avoid using electrical equipment in wet conditions to prevent electrocution. Store tools and equipment in a dry place.
Smoke and fire risks
- Safe barbecue practices: Place barbecues on level ground, away from flammable materials. Never use accelerants like petrol or meths to light the barbecue. Ensure it is fully extinguished before disposal.
- Fire safety equipment: Keep a fire extinguisher or bucket of sand nearby when using fire pits or barbecues. Ensure smoke detectors are installed and functioning in your home.
Other threats to breathing
- Avoid dust and fumes: When sanding, painting, or using chemicals, ensure the area is well-ventilated. Use masks to protect against inhaling dust or fumes.
- Keep small objects away from children: Store small DIY items like screws, nails, and other hardware out of reach of children to prevent choking hazards.
Play safety
- Secure equipment: Ensure play equipment and garden structures are securely anchored and regularly inspected for wear and tear to prevent accidents.
