Viewpoints

Home Improvement, the Safe Way

By Dale Lambert

With more time spent at home over the past year, many of us are finding new, creative ways to enhance and improve our homes. Tackling do-it-yourself (DIY) projects can be fun and cost-effective, and some projects can also make your home more energy efficient, providing an opportunity to save on energy bills.

So why not roll up those sleeves and get started? Work slowly and clean as you go. When you Whether you’re painting the front door with a rush through a DIY project, you’ll likely end up fresh hue or finally upgrading those patio lights, with less desirable results than you intended, successfully completing a DIY home project is or worse, you could make a costly or dangerous incredibly satisfying. But many of these projects mistake. Take your time and remember that you do not come without risks. Here are a few safety are in control of the project. You should also tips to keep in mind as you get to work, courtesy clean as you go to ensure a safer workspace. of the Electrical Safety Foundation International. Be cautious with power tools. Annually, Select a designated work area. The amount 8 percent of electrocutions in the U.S. are of space you’ll need will depend on the size and attributed to improper use of power tools. scope of your project, but make sure you have adequate lighting and ventilation (if necessary). Required tools and equipment should be located in your workspace and organized for easy access. Electricity is no joke—when ■ ■ Use ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) with every power tool to protect against electrical shock. Never use power tools near live electrical wires or water pipes. mishandled it can Use the right personal ■ Use extreme caution when cutting cause serious protective equipment (PPE). Investing a few bucks in PPE is or drilling into walls where electrical wires or water pipes could be essential for most home projects. Stock up on safety goggles, dust masks, ear plugs (or noise reduction ear protectors), gloves and any other kind of protection you’ll injury or death ■ accidentally touched or penetrated. If a power tool trips a safety device while in use, take the tool to a manufacturerauthorized repair center for service. need for your project. Remember to wear appro- ■ Do not use power tools without priate clothing and shoes. the proper guards. Leave electrical work to the pros. Electricity ■ When using a wet-dry vacuum cleaner is no joke — when mishandled it can cause seri- or a pressure washer, be sure to follow ous injury or death — and it’s well worth hiring the manufacturer’s instructions a qualified, licensed electrician to perform to avoid electrical shock. any electrical work in your home. If taking on smaller electrical work yourself, always turn off the power to the circuit that you plan to work on by switching off the circuit breaker in the main service panel and testing the circuit to verify the Enjoy working around your home this spring, and remember: you should only tackle DIY home projects within your skill and comfort level. power is off.

Dale Lambert is CEO for Randolph EMC, located in Asheboro.

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