在家进行日常维护General Precautions Related to Home Repairs

在家进行日常维护的时候，免不了会发生一些意外，我们看看，老外是如何保护自己的General Precautions Related to Home RepairsWhen it comes to home repairs, people usually get themselves into trouble because they underestimate the scope of the repair needed -- or worse, overestimate their familiarity with the repair and their ability to complete it. Taking stock of what you’re repairing requires you to make an honest assessment of the problem.Identify the Root Cause of the Problem本文档来自英语作文大全If you’ve lived in the home awhile, think back to when you first noticed the problem. There most likely were signs of trouble long before it got to the point where you had to do something. For example, water stains on walls or ceilings, mold formation and the less-than-satisfactory condition of a visible plumbing fixture signal a plumbing leak. Remembering where and when you first noticed the issue happening can help you determine what the cause might be.Sometimes the root cause of the problem is not evident. This is when it’s time to conduct a home repair ‘"CSI" by searching for clues. Not all electrical issues show smoke or make noise. Loose wiring, faulty breakersor other problems could easily be the cause of an electrical short. Use the symptoms to find the cause.If you’re in over your head and can't identify the cause of the problem, admit it and seek professional help.Assess Whether You Need Professional HelpNow that you’ve taken stock of what you’re repairing, pay attention to how you’re going to perform the repair. The first thing to consider is whether you have the necessary skills and tools to perform the repair because -- let’s face it -- DIY isn’t as easy as it looks. Some home repair projects are better left to professionals.For instance, if you live in a home that was built before 1978, chances are that it contains lead-based paint. So, common repairs such as sanding, cutting or window replacement -- which can disturb paint -- create lead dust and chips that are hazardous to you and your family.Lead-safe work practices that confine dust and debris to the work area, as well as minimize spreading that dust to other areas of the home, are key to keeping you and your family safe. So is keeping the affected area thoroughly clean using a vacuum with HEPA filter, designed so all of the air drawn into the vacuum is expelled through the filter, and then wet-mopping the area. An important safety note: Given the gravity of lead contamination, leave any repair that involves disturbing lead-based paint to lead-safe certified professionals.Bottom line: In general, you should leave major plumbing, electrical and roofing repairs to the pros. Installing new light fixtures, changing a faucet or replacing broken tiles tend to be more DIY friendly.Ensure Your Tools Are Right for the JobIf you’ve got the right skills to perform the repair as well as the ri ght tools for the job, you’ll want to check your tools for wear and damage. First, verify whether they’ve been kept clean and in good condition with regular maintenance. Then, confirm you have the appropriate safety equipment like safety goggles. When you're doing the repairs, assess whether you have sufficient space to perform the repair and keep hands clear of moving parts.Put Safety FirstIf your repair involves one of the home’s major systems -- electrical, plumbing, gas -- and you decide to perform the repairs yourself, make sure you know the location of the main shut-for each of the systems as well as the location of the individual circuits and valves. Before you startthe repair, shut off the nearest electrical circuit or valve, confirm that the powe r, gas or water is off and keep them off until you’re done. Any time you’re getting ready to penetrate a surface, verify what’s behind the surface before drilling, nailing, screwing or digging. This will help ensure the electrical, plumbing or gas system is not compromised. This will also save you money from a damage claim -- and may even save your life.If the work involves a ladder, always place your ladder on firm, level ground or use leg levelers under the ladder to level uneven or soft ground. And, if the ladder has extensions, make sure the extensions are locked before stepping onto the ladder to avoid a nasty fall. Also, be mindful of the maximum load rating of the ladder. It should hold you as well as the weight of any tools and equipment.No matter how small or minor the home repair, protect your eyes with safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields. That keeps your eyes away from flying debris or splashing liquids.The shatter-resistant plastic helps prevent pieces of glass from splintering in your eye.。