Personal safety
Please:
- always close the inner gate behind you;
- make sure that you have a mobile phone on you;
- wear sunscreen and a hat in hot weather;
- supervise children at all times;
- wash your fruit and vegetables before eating them.
General health risks
The allotments are a peaceful haven but we need to be aware of the health risks.
- Standing / stagnant water
- There tends to be a lot of it about, especially in the tanks. We need to take care when working with this water: there are various nasties that can be hiding there such as Weil’s disease. It is also possible (but very rare) for Legionnaire’s Disease to multiply in warmer weather. It is sensible to avoid leaving bottled water at your plot, bring fresh water each time.
- Ideally wear waterproof gloves when putting your hands in tanks and always wash your hands under the tap afterwards.
- Tetanus (also called Lockjaw).
- This is a serious bacterium that lives in the ground. If you have any cuts or scratches, be very careful as Tetanus can enter the body through these.
- Make sure that you have had a vaccination against Tetanus.
Canes and poles
- Please make sure that canes and poles are made safe by putting a cap on the top. Please consider any other hazards and think about what could happen if someone trips over on your plot.
Tools and equipment
- These can be a hazard if not put away properly.
- Tools that are the wrong size and style for you can cause a bad back amongst other things.
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and wear appropriate safety equipment when using power tools.
Pesticides and fertilisers
Please:
- consider natural alternatives;
- keep all chemicals in their original containers;
- always follow the manufacturer’s instructions;
- dispose of any chemicals and their containers responsibly.
Fires
- Please refer to the separate instructions on this site, concerning allotment fires.