As a homeowner, it makes sense to be equipped with at least a few tools, which can come in handy in different situations. If you plan to embark on DIY home improvement projects, you must buy or rent some power tools.

If you’ve never used a power tool before or haven’t used one in a few years, these safety tips for homeowners are for you.

Use personal protective equipment

Power tools can be dangerous when not handled properly. Even if you have extensive experience using them, you must wear personal protective equipment.

First, you need safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris. You should also wear comfortable gloves and earplugs to protect your hands since power tools can be very loud. Wear protective equipment even if you only use your power tools for a few minutes.

Don’t wear loose-fitting clothing

Wear loose-fitting clothing when using power tools is not a good idea. You could get hurt if a part of your clothes gets caught in the moving parts of your tool.

For the same reason, you should avoid wearing neckties and jewelry. If your hair is long, you should tie it behind your head. Consider wearing non-slip boots to help you maintain balance while using power tools.

Inspect your tools regularly

Homeowners should inspect your tools regularly. Check them for cracks, loose parts, exposed wires, and damaged cords or plugs. If one of your power tools seems damaged, don’t use it, as it could be dangerous. See if a professional can repair. Otherwise, replace your worn-out equipment with brand new replacements from the Milwaukee tool store.

Read the instruction manuals of your power tools

Just because you think you know how to operate a power tool doesn’t mean you can do it safely. Instruction manuals exist for a good reason; reading them carefully is not wasting time.

If you just got a set of new Milwaukee tools, take a moment to read their instruction manuals before you start using them. On top of preventing injuries, you’ll learn how to troubleshoot issues you could have with your tools.

Never carry power tools by their cords

Power tools are useful and convenient but can be dangerous if handled improperly. You should never carry a power tool by its cord, as you could damage it. 

Also, keep the cords of your tools away from sharp objects and heat sources. Faulty cords could damage your power tools and result in electric shocks, fires, and injuries.

Always work in a clean and well-lit area

Whenever you use power tools, keep your workspace clean and free from clutter. Whether working on a work table, in your garage, or a room, you must ensure you will not trip over tangled cords or risk spilling flammable liquids.

Work only in a well-lit area. You could get seriously injured if you can’t properly see what you’re doing when you use your tools.

Keep a firm grip on your power tools

When you work with your power tools, plant your feet firmly on the ground to help you maintain a good balance. Use both hands to hold your tool and firmly grip it.

Staying in control of your power tools can prevent injuries. This is why you should never use a too heavy tool or work with power tools while you’re feeling distracted or agitated.

Unplug your tools when you’re done using them

It’s not a good idea to leave your power tools in standby mode when you’re not using them. To prevent accidents and injuries, unplug your tools as soon as you’re done working with them.

It’s also important to turn off and unplug a tool whenever you need to change an accessory or make a few adjustments.

Store your tools properly

If you have children, you must store your power tools out of their reach. Consider keeping them in their original casings and placing them in a safe and dry location.

To maintain the performance of your batteries, remove them from your power tools before storing them. Remember to keep them in a dry and cool place, away from heat sources.