There’s something about summer that just makes us want to spend time outdoors. Maybe it’s the warmer weather or the longer days, but for many of us, our backyard has become our favorite go-to place during the summer months. Homeowners often take advantage of the summer weather by adding features to their backyard that makes it more enjoyable to spend time in.
Pools, decks, blooming flowers, and greeneries are popular additions that can help turn a backyard into a true oasis. And with a bit of imagination, even the most modest yards can be transformed into a welcoming retreat. However lovely they may be, remember that backyards can pose some safety hazards.
From poisonous plants to careless construction, many potential dangers can be found in even the most idyllic of outdoor spaces. Luckily, there are some easy DIY projects that any homeowner can complete to help make their backyard a safer place.
Install a Fence and Gate
One of the best ways to improve backyard safety is to install a fence and gate. This will help keep children and pets safely in your yard and deter trespassers. If you have a pool, adding a fence and keeping its gate locked is especially important to prevent accidental drownings.
Thankfully, adding and installing a fence and gate doesn’t have to be a difficult or expensive project. You can find pre-made fence panels online and at home improvement stores. Many of these have step-by-step instructions to make the installation process easy. When choosing a DIY fence for your pool, consider the materials first.
Wooden pool fences, for instance, are a popular choice because they’re affordable and easy to install. However, wooden fences will require more maintenance than other fences and may not be as durable in the long run.
Aluminum fences are often a better choice since they’re low-maintenance and long-lasting. These are also rust-free, which means they’ll look great for years to come. When choosing a supplier, it is best to find one that can customize your fences to ensure a perfect fit for your backyard.
Keep Plants and Shrubs Trimmed
Another backyard safety hazard that’s often overlooked is overgrown plants and shrubs. These can block your view of the yard and make it difficult to spot potential hazards. They can also provide hiding places for burglars and other trespassers.
To help improve backyard safety, keep plants and shrubs trimmed. This will help you have a clear view of the entire yard, making it easier to spot potential dangers. It’s also a good idea to trim any branches hanging over walkways or paths. Doing this will help prevent accidents and injuries.
You don’t necessarily need to hire someone to keep your plants and shrubs trimmed. With the right tools, equipment, and technique, you can do it yourself. You can ask a loved one for tips or watch DIY videos online to learn how to properly trim your plants.
Install Outdoor Lighting
According to a study, burglaries usually happen during summer. Up to 11.3% of burglaries happen in June, 10.3% occur in March, and 10.9 burglaries happen in April. While most burglaries happen in daytime, that does not necessarily mean you should already be confident after dark.
One way to deter the bad guys is by keeping your backyard well-lit at night. Thankfully, many different types of outdoor lighting fixtures are available. Choosing one based on your needs will make it easier to find the right product.
Solar-powered lights are a crowd’s favorite because they’re easy to install and don’t require an electrical outlet. These are also environmentally friendly and can save money on your energy bill.
If you want a more permanent solution, you can opt for wired outdoor lights. It is best to let professionals install wired lights to ensure you will have a reliable lighting solution that will last for years.
Remove Poisonous Plants and Flowers
Some plants and flowers can be dangerous to children and pets who might not know they’re poisonous. In some cases, these plants can also cause skin irritations and allergic reactions. To help improve backyard safety, remove any toxic plants from your yard.
There are many different ways to identify poisonous plants. You can look for plant information online or consult your local nursery or garden center. After identifying the poisonous plants in your yard, it’s time to remove them.
You can dig up the plants and dispose of them properly or use a chemical herbicide. If you choose to use herbicide, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. This will help ensure you’re using the product safely and effectively.
Build a Shed for Tools and Equipment
If you have a lot of tools and equipment in your backyard, be sure to store them properly. This will help prevent accidents and injuries. It will also help keep your yard looking neat and tidy.
One way to store your tools and equipment is by building a shed. This can be a simple structure made out of wood or a more complex one made out of metal or plastic. There are many different shed designs available, so you can find one perfect for your needs.
When building a shed, choose a location away from any walkways or paths. This will help prevent accidents and injuries. You should also ensure the shed is big enough to store all your tools and equipment. You might need to build a larger shed if you have many items.
You can do many things around your home to make it safer, and your backyard is no exception. In fact, there are several easy DIY projects you can complete to improve the safety of your backyard. You can use the list above as a guide to help you get started. With a little time and effort, you can make your backyard a safe place for your family and friends to enjoy.
