As the May bank holiday approaches and the weather finally begins to improve, gardens across the region are set to come alive with the familiar sound of lawnmowers, drills, spades and fence panels being shifted into place.

It’s one of the busiest weekends of the year for DIY and gardening. From laying patios and building decking to putting up fences, planting borders or finally tackling that long-postponed shed project, thousands of homeowners take advantage of the extra day off to get outdoors and get jobs done.

But alongside the surge in enthusiasm comes a very real warning from Wales & West Utilities, which is urging people to take extra care before breaking ground.

The company, which manages the gas network across Wales and the west of England, says the bank holiday spike in digging activity regularly leads to accidental damage to underground gas pipes – often because people simply don’t realise what is beneath the surface of their gardens.

And the consequences can be severe.

Striking a gas pipe can result in dangerous leaks, fires, or in extreme cases explosions, putting homes, lives and entire neighbourhoods at risk, as well as leading to costly repairs and disruption.

With that in mind, the message this weekend is simple: pause before you dig.

Wales & West Utilities is asking householders to follow its “Can you DIG it?” safety approach:

D – Dial before you dig: Contact the company or use its online tool to check where gas pipes are located
I – Investigate properly: Always obtain up-to-date plans and consider a site visit if needed. Be especially cautious around gas meter supply pipes, which run underground
G – Go ahead carefully: Only proceed if it’s safe, and take care when using machinery or power tools

The advice comes at a time when DIY culture is in full swing. Bank holidays traditionally see a surge in home improvement projects across the UK, fuelled by longer daylight hours, warmer weather and a desire to refresh outdoor spaces ahead of summer.

But engineers say many incidents happen in otherwise simple jobs – putting in a new fence post, planting trees, or digging out a small garden feature – where underground utilities are not considered.

The company is reminding people that a few minutes of checking beforehand can prevent serious accidents later on.

So as barbecues are wheeled out, garden centres are emptied of paving slabs, and neighbours compare lawn progress over the hedge, the key message this weekend is clear: enjoy the long weekend, enjoy the gardening – but always check what’s beneath your feet first.