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Safety Precautions When Repairing Your Car

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With today’s economy and cost of labor to have repairs done on your car many choose to do the needed repairs themselves.  Some repairs are the basic routine and upkeep on your car.  These are such things as:  how to change the plugs, drain the oil, change a flat tire and so on.  Many were taught these minor repairs while young as it was pretty common and still is today.  However, it is very important to have the right tools for the job at hand.

Safety should be of highest importance

Safety should be of highest importance.  It can be very easy to hurt yourself when working in among tight places under the hood.  Sometimes when putting pressure on a certain tool it can slip and really hurt you.  For example, a wrench could slip off the head of a bolt and you could smash your hand causing substantial injury if not careful.  Observing where your hand is and noting what could happen if the tool did slip can help protect you and be better prepared. Wearing gloves or wrapping a rag around your hand can also offer some protection.

You can try pulling the tool toward you instead of away which is a help in controlling the pressure you exert on it.  Try not to be hasty when making repairs.  Also, remember that many accidents occur because of not using the correct tool.  It is a good practice to wear some safety goggles whenever working under the hood as foreign particles can often land in your eye.  The wearing of goggles are actually mandatory when working as a professional mechanic in a shop because even liquids are hazardous like battery acid for example.

Some suggested items

You may want to invest in a crate of some sort to keep basic tools and containers in an upright position.  Some suggested items could be: jumper cables, reflectors or flares, flashlight, tools, duct tape, tow ropes, spare fuses, and extra containers of fluids (antifreeze, brake fluid, oil, water) to make things easier when a car repair is needed.

Remember when using a car jack for changing a tire to make sure you put it in the right spot for the best and safest support. Looking at an owner’s manual for your make of car can show you where the best places are.  Always be aware though that any sudden force could make the car shift and come off the jack. It is a great responsibility we have to maintain our vehicles either routinely or in an emergency.

October 26, 2010 Posted by karenknews | Automotive | awake 04, car jack, car repairs, car safety repairs, changing oil, changing tire, minor repairs, owner's manual, safety goggles, tools | Leave a Comment