Is your dad ready to be safe with his Father’s Day Gifts?

When I was growing up, my dad used a circular saw as much as my mom used the microwave. He never wore safety goggles, much less ear plugs. His lungs are probably full of sawdust – among other things. In fact, he never followed safety guidelines or instructions. It wasn’t until I owned my own house and was using my own string trimmer that I realized things can indeed land in my eyes.

Safety goggles are just the start. It’s also important to keep the work space clean and well lit, and to keep loose-fitting clothes away from any moving part. Maintain power tools to keep them in proper condition, and make sure they’re plugged into properly-grounded outlets on a circuit that can support the power needed to run the tool. And those aren’t even half your considerations before starting.

It’s no joke. According to NPR, there are some 4,000 amputations a year resulting from table saw accidents, but this statistic is leading to innovations. Make sure your dad is protecting himself now. OSHA has some valuable information, but don’t forget – power tool safety doesn’t just apply to the work site, it’s for home, too.