Electricity

Use a residual current device (unless this is already incorporated into your house wiring system) with electrically powered machines to avoid the risk of accidental electrocution.

To reduce the risk of cutting through the flex, choose brightly coloured and therefore highly visible extension leads, fit plastic blades instead of metal ones (but only those designed for a particular machine), or use a cordless mower.

Powered machines should be difficult to start accidentally. Most electric mowers are now sold with a two-handed switch, so they cannot be started unintentionally when being carried around.

Petrol

The fuel must be stored in a proper fuel container. Also, neither the fuel nore the mower should be stored in the house, where they would pose a fire risk. Petrol and its vapour is highly inflammable, and the vapour remains in the air for sometime after pouring, so save the cigarette for much later.