Itching to get the yard into shape for the Summer? Here are a few ways to ensure your Spring spruce-up is disaster free.
More than 60,000 people are treated in emergency rooms each year for lawn-mower injuries:
- Rake before you mow to prevent any stones and loose debris from launching into the air
- Never operate a mower in your bare feet and avoid wearing loose clothing
- Never start a mower indoors. I thought this one would go without saying but, it was on the list!!
- Don’t spill gasoline on a hot engine, make sure the engine is off and cool
- DON’T SMOKE while pouring gasoline …. it was on the list too!!
- Never leave your mower unattended
At least 55,000 people each year sustain injuries from hedge trimmers, lawn-edger, pruners, and power saws:
- Read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before using the tools.
- Inspect the product for damage and don’t use it if there are problems.
- Use proper eye protection.
- Make sure blade guards are in place on all cutting equipment.
When pruning trees, be careful not to let metal ladders or trimmers contact overhead wires.
Unplug all tools when not in use and make sure the tool is in the “off” position before you plug it in. Don’t let tools get wet unless they are labeled “immersible”.
Store gasoline-powered equipment away from anything that uses a pilot light. Never use gasoline to clean skin, clothes, auto parts or floors.
Always wear protective clothing when you handle pesticides, fertilizer, or doing any “hands on” weed removal. Be sure you know how to identify poison ivy, sumac, oak and similar toxic plants. Find out ahead of time how to treat the rashes they cause to reduce the irritation.
Household and pool chemicals, paints, and poisons should be properly marked and stored. Dispose of any that are leaking, expired, or that look bad. When cleaning up hazardous chemicals wear rubber gloves and follow the safety directions on the packaging. Never mix chemicals in the same container or pour them down the drain.
Winter’s inactive muscles can take only so much strain. Don’t overdo it – build up slowly so you don’t have strains or pains the next day.