ACCORDING to the London Fire Brigade, spring is the most popular time to carry out DIY activities.

Its statistics also show at this time of year there is an increase in emergency calls, which are caused by activities associated with home improvements.

Beckenham and Orpington station commander Chris Fitzgerald said: "These accidents range from fires ignited by blow torches involved in paint stripping to electrical appliances and other equipment which may have been stored in a damp garage or shed over the winter period."

Chris therefore has some sound advice to any would-be DIYers.

He said: "Always check the task you are undertaking is within your capabilities. Take expert advice. Many of the modern DIY superstores from which materials and equipment are bought will offer such advice. Safety instructions should be read in full and complied with."

DIY electrical work in homes is covered by the Building Regulations. Homeowners can still carry out their own work but riskier jobs may need to be approved by their local authority's Building Control Department.

For information on the rules affecting people carrying out electrical work in homes and gardens, call 08701 226236 or call your local authority's Building Control Department for advice.