Exercise Safety While Doing Yard Work

yardwork

Signs of spring are everywhere! And that means it's time to start tending your lawn again. But before you head outside to garden or work in the yard, remember these safety tips:

Inspect Equipment and Surroundings Before Getting Started

  • Ensure all your tools are in good condition and that any safety devices are working correctly.
  • Service the lawn mower and leaf blower each year before use.
  • Check the area you plan to work for debris, and remove any sticks, stones, metal, glass and wire that could cause serious injuries when thrown by equipment.

Prepare Yourself for the Job

  • Wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts. Clothing should be as close fitting as possible to avoid catching in moving equipment parts.
  • Protect your eyes with goggles or glasses.
  • Protect your hearing when using motor-driven equipment.
  • Wear sturdy shoes with slip-resistant rubber soles – not sandals, sneakers or bare feet.
  • Wear gloves when changing, sharpening or cleaning blades.

Watch Out for Children

  • Keep children indoors while during yard work.
  • Never allow children to operate power lawn and garden equipment. Teenagers can use such equipment if they possess “adequate strength and maturity,” but only under adult supervision.
  • If you used chemicals in the yard, keep children away from the area. Keep the chemicals in a locked, ventilated room out of a child's reach.

When finished, make sure equipment is stored properly. Improperly stored hoses can lead to tripping. Ladders should be placed on their sides, and rakes should lie with tines down.

Source: The National Safety Council; The Consumer Product Safety Commission; National Traffic Safety Institute

 

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