Spring Yard Work Safety

4/23/2018 (Permalink)

Spring is more or less in full-swing, which means it's time to hit the yard and start the post-winter cleanup and repairs. Before you head outside, it's important to keep safety in mind.

Here are a few tips to help keep you and your family safe during your Spring clean-up.

1) Know your equipment. Before operating your lawn equipment, read the owner’s manual and all of the safety information. Be sure to check with the manufacturers for any safety recalls, as well.

2) Practice Ladder Safety. Always ensure sure your ladder is firmly set on a level surface. Never set ladders on boxes or other objects to make the ladder reach higher areas.  Lock or barricade any doors that may open toward ladders. Never stand on the top rung or step of a ladder.

3) Protect your body. Always wear protective gear; lawnmowers hit rocks, sticks and other items which can be turned into flying projectiles. Wear long pants to protect your legs from flying objects and wear non-slip, closed-toe shoes. Sunglasses will protect you from sun and earplugs can eliminate loud noises from machinery.

4) Properly tools and materials. Stepping on, landing on or being hit with garden tools like shovels, rakes, and trowels can cause a number of potentially severe injuries. Do not use these tools when in close proximity to children. When not in use, store them in safe, enclosed areas.  If you have small children or pets, weed killer or lawn fertilizer can be deadly.  Seal bags and store at heights where small children cannot get in to potentially harmful materials.

5) Be aware of electricity. Don’t leave electrical tools plugged in while not in use. When ready to use a tool, make sure equipment is in the off position before you plug it in. And, as is obvious, always turn equipment off and unplug it from an outlet before you attempt to fix the machinery.