Don’t Fa La La Down this Christmas; Follow these Ladder safety Tips!
During Christmas it is common to see all sorts of decorations on the inside and outside of your home. Weather, it is hanging a wreath to hanging lights and everything in between. When a ladder is going to be used make sure to be extra careful.
Below is a list of ways to keep you as safe as possible when using a ladder.
Set up your ladder correctly. Place the ladder on flat ground. If you are using a stepladder, make sure it is open completely and locked into place. For taller ladders, use the 4 to 1 rule: the bottom of the ladder should be one foot away from the wall for every four feet of height.
- Check the weather before decorating. Strong winds or a light drizzle can create dangerous situations for using a ladder.
- Properly inspect your ladder. Before climbing your ladder, make sure it doesn’t have any damage and is in good working order. This is especially important if you have not used your ladder recently.
- Don’t stretch. Stretching while on a ladder can lead to injury. Over-reaching can result in the ladder kicking out from under you.
- Climb the ladder correctly. Face forward when climbing a ladder, gripping the rails with both hands, and don’t stand on the top rung of the ladder.
Don’t Be a Grinch this Christmas! Maintain 3 Points of Contact!