HOME improvement and gardening accidents are expected to soar this weekend as DIY fanatics break out the tools.

As the first long weekend of the year Easter is traditionally the beginning of the DIY season.

The greatest risk comes from climbing ladders and power tools, said David Jenkins, product safety adviser for the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents.

But thousands can prevent a trip to the hospital by taking basic safety measures such as wearing gloves, goggles and masks.

"Being a little more tidy could prevent many of these accidents," said Mr Jenkins.

"It is quite common for people to trip over tools and materials or stand on rakes or nails.

"If you leave things lying around, children can pick them up and be hurt copying what you are doing or swallowing small items such as screws."

Bill Jeynes, owner of independent hardware store Jeynes Home Hardware, in St John's, said business had been busy for gardening equipment.

"We have been busy because people have a couple of days off and with the wonderful weather they want to get outside."