DIY enthusiasts are being warned to be fire safety aware this Easter.

The London Fire Brigade said it receives more calls during long holiday weekends to emergencies caused by DIY accidents.

London Fire Brigade’s Assistant Commissioner for Community Safety Andy Barrett said: “These can range from fires ignited by blow torches involved in paint stripping, to drilling into live electrical cables or gas supply pipes."

Bank holiday fire safety DIY tips: •Check you have the correct tool for the job.

•Ensure children and pets are safe, with obstructions removed from your workplace.

•If you have to check or repair an electrical tool turn it off at the mains. Don’t be tempted to cut corners because you are some distance from the power switch.

•Always uncoil electrical extension cables fully, as these can overheat and cause a fire.

•Never use multi-way adapters when working with high power tools.

•Gas appliances should only be repaired by an approved contractor.

•Flammable liquids should be used in accordance with manufacturer's instructions, secured in containers and used in small quantities, well away from the house and other risks – e.g. naked flames, cigarettes or pilot lights.

•Ventilate when using adhesives and flammable liquids by opening windows and doors and always ensure that no naked flames or power tools are close by.

•If you spill a substance on your clothing or overalls remove them and clean them thoroughly.

•Don’t use electrical equipment in the garden when it is raining.

•Don’t leave electrical equipment plugged in whilst unattended.

•Always check where electric wiring is running behind walls before attempting to drill holes.

•Invest in a portable Residual Current Device (safety device that can save lives by instantly switching off power) for all those outside DIY jobs with electric tools.

•Never attempt DIY electric wiring yourself anywhere in the home For more information on fire safety visit the London Fire Brigade website at london-fire.gov.uk