20 April 2011
Doctors and nurses at Epsom and St Helier hospitals are calling on all DIY enthusiasts to take care this Easter, as figures show more people hurt themselves over the Bank Holiday weekend.
Last year, the busy A&E departments at Epsom and St Helier hospitals saw approximately 270 adults every day. But on the day immediately following the Easter Bank Holiday, that number rose by 16% to 318 patients.
Dr Carole Ann Johnson is the doctor in charge of running the hospitals' A&E departments. She said: "As the first long weekend of the year, many local residents will use the Easter weekend to kick-start their home improvements. But sadly, for an unlucky few, this can end in a trip to hospital.
"We understand that people want to make the most of their time off work, but it's important that you keep safe while doing work around the home. We'd encourage all would-be 'DIYers' to plan what they're doing, make sure their tools are in good working order and not to be over-ambitious about what they can achieve."
Figures from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) show that in the UK alone, more than 500,000 people hurt themselves and 70 people die whilst carrying out DIY and gardening tasks each year. But simple measures, such as wearing gloves, goggles or masks could be the difference between enjoying the holiday at home or having to go to hospital.
Some top tips for staying safe:
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Be realistic and don't tackle a job unless you really have the ability. A competent, qualified person should always carry out gas and electrical renewal or repair work;
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Keep any tools clean and in good repair, and give each one a quick check over before you use it ;
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Always plan ahead - accidents happen more easily if you are unprepared and rush;
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Stop and disconnect all electrical appliances and tools before working on them;
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Ensure that all tools, paint and chemicals are kept safely out of the reach of children;
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Take extra care with sharp cutting tools;
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Keep children and pets away when carrying out DIY.
