TOOL CHECK

Count up your tools and make sure that none of them are left out in the rain. Bring them in and check on their condition. There may be tools that need new handles or a bit sticking back on that have dropped off. Throw away any tools that are damaged or broken, these are dangerous and are just accidents waiting to happen.

Oil and sand

Scrub the tools clean with soapy water, dry them thoroughly and wipe them down with an oily rag. Another good idea for spades, forks and trowels is to have a bucket filled with sand and some old engine oil poured into it.

Push the tool in a few times, the sand acts as an abrasive cleaner and the oil stops the metal from rusting. You can use it in summer too in between using the equipment.

Make sure that the tools are hung up properly. Tools stacked in corners or hanging from the ceiling are also very dangerous, especially when you are rooting around the shed in the middle of the night looking for the lost Christmas decorations.

Hosepipes

If you have outside taps make sure that the pipes are insulated against the frost in winter. Disconnect the hosepipe and drain the water out of it. When storing the pipe try to roll it around an old car wheel (minus the tyre!) or invest in a proper drum from the garden supply shops. Don’t hang them on a nail, as the sharp edge will damage the pipe and more than likely split it too.

Always use a circuit breaker if you are using electric power tools outside. The plug in adaptors are now very cheap to buy so there is no excuse.

Mower

Check the mower regularly to make sure nothing has fallen off of it.  Tighten all the nuts and bolts and lubricate the moving parts.  Have the mower serviced just before the start of the season or towards the end.  Breaking down is frustrating when you have set aside an afternoon to cut the grass. When the mower is standing for any length of time, empty the petrol out, as it can get slimy if it’s left for too long. Check the spark plug and filters and change if necessary. The blades might need sharpening as well. If you are in any doubt then take it to a repair shop.

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