Enjoy your DIY safely: Safety reminder for those planning to catch up on household projects during lockdown

With the Covid-19 lockdown limiting recreational options for the Easter Holiday period many people may be thinking about getting out the toolbox and catching up on some household projects.

This year’s Easter Bank Holiday period represents an ideal opportunity to make the most of the lockdown staycation by carrying out some much needed home improvement or gardening work.

However, it’s important to stay safe while doing our DIY, so it’s good to beware of the sometimes hidden hazards in our homes, including gas pipes.

Cadent, Britain’s biggest gas distribution network and provider of the gas emergency service, is regularly called out to reports of third party damage to our gas network. Some of these can be the result of DIY jobs gone wrong.

Peter Close, Cadent Director of Safety, said: “Damaging a live gas service pipe can result in a gas leak, fire or explosion putting not just the person doing the work at risk but also others in the property as well as neighbours and pets.

“As a rough guide gas service pipes will generally follow the shortest route from the gas meter to the gas main which will usually be located beneath a road or pavement outside the property.”

He added: “However, this may not always be the case and we would advise any members of the public undertaking DIY tasks to exercise caution, especially when drilling or digging. If they do damage one of our pipes they should ensure they move to a safe location and report it us on 0800 111 999* as soon as possible.” (*Calls are recorded and may be monitored)

DIY enthusiasts should also not attempt any work to move, fix or fit gas appliances including boilers and cookers. Instead they should arrange for a Gas Safe Registered professional engineer to carry out the work.

Peter explained: “Rather than saving you a few pounds DIY gas work can cost you your life as well as putting others at risk as unsafe gas work can lead to gas and carbon monoxide leaks, fires and explosions.

“Our message is clear as tempting as it may be to try and do it yourself, work involving your gas appliances should only be carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer.”

For more information on how to find a Gas Safe Registered engineer in your area call 0800 408 5500 or visit:

• gassaferegister.co.uk

Public safety is the company’s top priority and extra precautions are being taken during the coronavirus pandemic to ensure both customers and employees remain safe. Further information can be found on the company’s website at:

• cadentgas.com/coronavirus