HOME improvement programmes on television have been blamed for a rising number of accidents as more and more people attempt DIY jobs in and around the house.
It is feared viewers, inspired by the apparent ease with which the experts do their stuff in series such as Changing Rooms, are taking on tasks which are beyond their abilities.
Figures published by the Department of Trade and Industry, timed to coincide with the traditional Easter weekend DIY rush, show around 70 people are killed and 250,000 injured each year as people tackle house and garden tasks.
Consumer Affairs Minister Kim Howells said: ''Most of the deaths are caused from falling off ladders, or through electrocution.'' She warned that ''it looks easy on the TV''.
A BBC spokesman said: ''Safety is a primary concern on Changing Rooms. The design team always follows recommended safety procedures and offer tips and advice to the public.''
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