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This Father’s Day, give him something to keep him safe

MIKE HOLMES @Make_It_Right Listen to Mike’s new Holmes on Homes Podcast on all major streaming platforms.

Father’s Day is almost here — and if you’re like me, all you dads and dad figures out there are probably hoping for a new tool or two (and maybe some peace and quiet to tinker in your workshop).

I’m really lucky to have a garage to hold all my tools and toys — but you may be shopping for someone for whom space is a premium so, in this case, it’s about looking for smart additions that either replace old, worn equipment or help organize the clutter to make them easy to access without taking up a ton of extra space.

Whether your dad is an avid DIYer who likes to take on household maintenance or just someone who likes to build things in the garage on the weekend, here are some great ideas to surprise the tool lover in your life.

PROPER SAFETY GEAR

Now, this might sound like the equivalent of getting socks on Christmas morning, but I believe that if your tool kit doesn’t have enough personal protective equipment, that tool kit is not complete.

Even the smallest projects include some element of risk, and a more casual DIYer might think they can get away without the proper eye gear, footwear or hearing protection. Take your cues from what kind of projects they like to do. Are they a woodworker? They better have proper eye wear, and respirators to keep from breathing in all that dust. Remember to include a few additional cartridges with your respirator so they can breathe easy.

Are they more mechanically inclined? A new set of tools might be a better bet. Look for tools that have flexible necks, or have flashlights included to help them light the way when working with small, dark areas. This will help keep them from getting into some uncomfortable positions just to replace some screws or nuts — and for us older folks, you know that can be murder on the back. Some coveralls might make a good gift, to keep them from ruining their everyday clothing with grease and grime.

When in doubt, new safety boots are a good bet — they don’t last forever. Seriously, if your dad mows his lawn in his flip-flops, tell him Mike said stop it, then give him some steel-toed footwear. If the old ones are still in decent shape, there are plenty of organizations, who can help distribute them to new construction workers in need of a strong pair of boots.

Their workshop needs an easy to access first aid kit and, if he has one, make sure it’s up to date because certain items like ointment expire and alcohol wipes can dry out. While every home needs one, it’s a good idea to have a fully stocked spare in the garage or tool area just in case accidents happen. You’ll also want an extra and up-to-date fire extinguisher in this area (especially if it’s your garage).

MAKE IT PORTABLE

If you’re not careful, your tool collection can really take over. So why not help out with some new storage? Portable storage kits with interlocking modular cases can help cut down on the real estate your tool collection requires while making them easy to transport where necessary. If they’ve got the perfect tool transport system, then think bigger, like five gallons (nine litres) big. A five-gallon bucket can serve multiple purposes. It can carry those tools and pieces that don’t fit in their kit.

It can be used to transport waste from the worksite and it can pull double duty up at the cottage or on camping trips.

Don’t overlook the value a good bucket can bring to any tool aficionado.

You still have a little time to get your dad or dad figure the ultimate gift for their big day. Personally, I can’t wait to see my kids from a safe distance — and hey, if they bring Dad a new tool, or some materials that I can use in my next DIY project, all the better. Enjoy your day, dads!

HOMES

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2021-06-12T07:00:00.0000000Z

2021-06-12T07:00:00.0000000Z

https://saltwire.pressreader.com/article/281925955957507

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