According to Consumer Products Safety Commission, about 250,000 Americans require medical treatment for ladder related injuries a year with 97% of ladder accidents happening at home. Local Fire Departments would like to offer some ladder safety tips before you head out to clean those gutters and hang the holiday lights. – Always place ladders on firm, even ground; – Make sure all hinges, stops or latches are secure; – Tempting as it may be, do not sit or stand on the very top rung; – Reaching too far to the sides may cause the ladder slip; – Use a tool belt or bag to carry needed items leaving your hands free to hold on to ladder; – Always use step ladders in fully open position, do not lean against objects; – Use proper ladder angle for extension ladders, a 1:4 ratio (If ladder is 16 ft high, base should be 4 ft from house); – If stepping onto roof, be sure ladder extends 3 ft above point of contact and use caution when moving between ladder and roof; – Remember roofs may be slippery from moisture, moss or leaves; – Let someone know when you are going to be using a ladder, they may need to call for help in case of emergency. For those with medical, balance or concern with heights, the safest choice maybe to ask for help. If you are able offer to assist those may need it; neighbors, parents, grandparents. When using outdoor electrical equipment, tools or holiday decorations, be sure to follow manufacturer’s recommendations.
