Now that the warmer weather will soon be here, many of us are keen to get our gardens tidy in preparation for those long hot summer days. But before you go ahead, read on...

Every year lots of accidents occur in the garden, the latest statistics show that there are 300,000 garden accidents with 32,000 people needing hospital treatment. Most of these accidents are avoidable.. So, how can you be safer in the garden?

Hertfordshire Accident Prevention Group answer some of the common questions on how you can make your garden a safer place.

How can I be sure that my garden equipment is safe to use?

Before using any equipment make sure it is in good condition and that you read and follow any instructions. Even if you have hired or borrowed the equipment, check that they are well maintained and make sure you know how to use them.

Electrical equipment should satisfy British Safety Standards. It is also important to use a residual current device (RCD) as this disconnects the power supply to the equipment before you can be electrocuted or further damage can be done. Check cables and flexes regularly to ensure that they are not frayed or kinked. Do not use electrical equipment in wet conditions and use a dry cloth to wipe the equipment clean.

Remember to protect your eyes with safety glasses when using hedge trimmers and use ear plugs or defenders when using noisy equipment. Gloves and stout shoes can also help to prevent injury.

When using a ladder make sure the base is on firm level ground. Position it so that the base is one foot out for every four feet vertically. Don't over reach or over balance and ask someone to hold the bottom of the ladder.

Keep your garden shed tidy. Sheds can soon become cluttered and many injuries are caused because garden tools have been carelessly stored.

I know a lot of people hurt their backs when gardening, how can I prevent this happening to me?

It is always important to lift with care and to keep your loads small. Keep your back straight, breathe in, use leg muscles and do not twist as you lift.

Most people do not consider gardening as exercise but it is hard work and after a long winter break many people are not prepared for it. So, why not do a few warm up exercises. Before you start digging, bend and then stretch your back a few times to limber up. Take it easy and do not over do it.

How can I use chemicals safely in the garden?

It is best to store all chemicals

• out of sight
• out of reach - locked away;
• in their original containers and with the top secured
• keep them away from heat and check for special storage instructions.

Remember to read and follow any instructions and always wear gloves when handling chemicals, washing your hands after use. Wear a mask where necessary and do not spray chemicals when there is a breeze blowing.

The main risk of poisoning is to children by accidental swallowing of chemicals such as weedkillers. If you think your child has swallowed a garden chemical it is best to give the child a drink of milk or water - but not if the lips or mouth are badly burnt. Do not give salt and water to drink or make the child sick. Phone a doctor immediately for advice, and if you cannot contact a doctor, take the child to your nearest hospital accident and emergency department and take the chemical with you.

The Herts Accident Prevention Group (HAPG) includes representatives of Hertfordshire Health Promotion, Hertfordshire County Council, all District Borough Councils, Hertfordshire Health Authorities, NHS Trusts and the University of Hertfordshire and is convened to support accident prevention through education, training and publicity.

The HAPG thanks all Hertfordshire Newspapers for printing our information releases to raise reader awareness and hopefully reduce the number of accidents in Hertfordshire.