Read the directions. Before using any electrical equipment or chemical -- especially for the first time -- consult the owner's manual or instruction labels and learn what the job entails. Make sure you are prepared to deal with any hazards associated with the equipment, says the National Safety Council.

Dress for the job. Wear gloves, shoes, long pants, a long-sleeved shirt and, most important, safety glasses or goggles. Gloves should be thick enough to provide protection, but still give you a feel for the object you are working with. Leather shoes or boots are better than sneakers. You should remove any rings or other jewelry that might catch on a nail or other object. If you have long hair, tie it back.

Handle tools properly. Approach home improvements in the same way a professional craftsman would. Be careful around high-speed saws and drills. And don't use the right tool for the wrong purpose -- a chisel as a can opener, for instance. It's a good way to get cut and ruin your chisel too.

Keep children safe. When you're using power tools, including lawn equipment, ban children from the area. Although your kids may be fascinated by your power tools, they can get their hands caught in seconds, before you even know they're there. Chemicals and children don't mix, either: Store paint and garden chemicals on high shelves or inside locked cabinets. If your "handyman's special" contains lead paint, hire professionals to remove it and the resulting dust -- and keep your kids out of the house during the work.

Use your head. Overconfidence is as likely to cause an accident as inexperience. There's no shame in seeking help. Talk to a professional if you feel uncomfortable about a project.