Risky DIY projects spark surge in emergency call-outs

Following a spate of emergency call-outs due to serious injuries from people doing their own DIY, tradie experts are imploring residents to contact the professionals instead.

According to CareFlight rescue helicopter service, more than four Australians have fallen from their roof carrying out repairs since May 1 – and another 10 were flown to hospital in April.
Matt Jones from Tradiematepro, a support and coaching platform for trade-based businesses, says for every wannabe tradie that has been flown to hospital, there are many others who have injured themselves carrying out home repairs.
His word of advice for those considering risky DIY is “Don’t!”
“There have been some terrible injuries in the past few weeks from people tackling repairs and home improvements, so it’s always better to call in the professionals,” Mr Jones said.
“It’s understandable, especially with the forced isolation, that people have carried out home maintenance to save money and for health reasons, but in many cases it’s a disaster.
“As well as the obvious risk of injury, some projects could be fatal, especially when it comes to electrical or even working on uneven surfaces at a great height.
“Plus, nine times out of 10, the repairs become even more expensive as the professionals are then called in to fix botched jobs – we’ve had a huge surge in residential repairs and maintenance, in particular plumbing and electrical work, over the last few weeks.
“And with rentals, landlords, property managers, strata building and facility managers all have obligations to ensure repairs and maintenance are carried out on tenanted properties.
“No home improvement is worth risking maiming yourself, or worse.”