Stay safe in the garden this Spring

Britons are being given advice on how to stay safe in the garden as the spring and summer months approach.

The garden design experts at Pergolux UK have given their tips on staying safe as homeowners prepare the outdoor space for Spring.

According to statistics from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, around 300,000 people are injured in the garden annually, with lawnmowers, flower pots and secateurs and pruners being the biggest offenders.

But these accidents can be avoided with simple steps, putting safety high on the gardening list of priorities.

Storing tools correctly, being mindful of electrical cables and wearing protective clothing will all make a difference. 

Other safety measures gardeners can take include storing chemicals and poisons safely, identifying dangerous plants and keeping the bugs away when dining outdoors. 

Outdoor expert Sam Stevens from Pergolux UK said: “Making sure you’re safe while carrying out basic gardening tasks should be high on your priority list.

“There are simple changes homeowners can make – cleaning and storing tools is an easy one which will lessen the chance of tripping over tools in the shed or them becoming rusty and difficult to use. 

“Making sure ladders are on a steady surface is a very easy check which will take just seconds, as is making sure electrical equipment is unplugged before cleaning or repair.

“The garden is there to be enjoyed, especially as we get towards the warmer months – just make sure you’re safe.”

Here are Pergolux UK’s tips for staying safe in the garden:

Storing tools correctly

Make sure tools are cleaned after use and stored away correctly. Installing tool racks and wall hooks will help keep the shed tidy and avoid any trip hazards in such a small space. Check the shed is dry and well-ventilated to avoid rusty tools and patches of mould. 

Wearing protective clothing

Think about the job you’re doing and the protective equipment that will make you safer. Gardening gloves are a must for basic outdoor jobs. When you’re cutting hedges, trees and bushes consider protective goggles to stop debris getting into your eye.

Electrical equipment

Before cleaning or fixing lawnmowers, hedge cutters or any other electrical equipment make sure you turn them off and unplug. Be mindful of cables when using the equipment. It’s too easy to cut through them which can cause your electricity to short.  

Chemicals and poisons

If you’re using pesticides and other garden chemicals, make sure to read and follow any instructions. Wear gardening gloves when using and make sure you store away any poisons and chemicals out of reach of children and animals. 

Broken pots and planters

Broken pots and planters can be reused in the garden, or recycled at your local recycling centre. Left broken they could become a trip hazard and could cause cuts. Instead, use broken bits to cover drainage holes in pots – or if you have young children, create a fairy garden.

Poisonous plants

Identify any poisonous plant and make sure children and pets stay well away from them. If you’re handling, cover up and wear gloves to prevent the plant touching your skin. After handling, wash your hands and all clothing.

Bugs

Bugs keep your garden healthy by pollinating plants, recycling waste and controlling pests. If you want to keep the bugs away, particularly if you’re eating or entertaining outside, use natural repellants like citronella candles or burn essential oils including peppermint and eucalyptus. 

Ladder safety

If you’re about to climb a ladder, check if it’s on a level surface, against a solid wall and will take your weight.  Make sure all the rungs are sturdy. If any are missing or look unsafe, give using the ladder a mis