Garden sheds and garages can be very useful spaces for storage and often you will find all sorts of things stored there. It is important to maintain the upkeep of your shed and garage and be aware of safety measures to reduce potential dangers for children and adults. Remember, prevention is key when it comes to keeping everyone safe. By putting into practice the advice outlined below and supervising children as much as possible, you can prevent accidental poisoning and have a safe shed and garage.
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Here are some tips to ensure your shed and garage are safe
- Secure your shed and garage with a suitable lock so that nobody can enter without you.
- Do not leave your shed door or garage door open. It is an invitation for children to explore, play inside, and access products that may cause poisoning if swallowed or following skin or eye contact.
- Store hazardous substances such as weed-killers, insecticides, drain cleaners, antifreeze, screen wash, and other car cleaning products out of reach and sight of children.
- Keep flammable products such as petrol, lighter fluid, barbecue fluid, and solvent-based glues in a locked metal cabinet. Ensure these items are not stored close to a source of heat or sunlight.
- Store paints, white spirit, turpentine and other decorating materials up high and out of reach and sight of children.
- Avoid using petrol/diesel engines or barbeques inside your shed. Fumes can quickly build up and can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Never transfer products from their original containers into soft-drink bottles or unlabeled containers. The label contains important information about the product and ingredients that cis important if accidental poisoning occurs.
- Always read the product label before using chemical products and follow the instructions on the label.
- Do not leave product containers open or unattended, even for a short time, as it only takes seconds for accidental poisoning to occur.
- Check your shed regularly for gaps and holes that could allow wasps to fly in. These insects can quickly establish nests, creating a safety hazard for anyone who enters.
Contacting the National Poisons Information Centre
Healthcare Professional Line: 01 809 2566 (24hr)
Public Poisons Line: 01 809 2166 (8am-10pm)