Locating hidden pipes and wires

[Sweet G]

I am about to do some low level DIY and picture hanging. What instrument do i need to to make sure I dont hammer a nail or drill into a hidden pipe/wire behind a wall? Thanks

[mrpeter]

Good DIY stores will have detectors that are hand held and emit a sound or a light flashes when passed over pipes/wires. Some will find the studding in a studded wall.They are easily set to suit the wall you are checking and it is then just a case of passing the detector over the area where you are drilling or nailing to find out if it is clear of pipes/wires.They are battery operated.B&Q, Homebase Focus should have them or a good local hardware DIY store.Not expensive. Certainly cheaper than drilling through a pipe or a wire. take the battery out when not in use and the unit will last a long time.