Many of us enjoy doing yard work – while others see it as an unpleasant chore. Regardless, someone has to cut the grass, trim the hedges, rake the leaves, etc. – so it’s best to stay safe while doing any type of yard work. Following are some helpful safety tips.
Equipment Safety – Most serious accidents in the yard involve lawnmowers, weed whackers, chainsaws, tillers or other motorized equipment. The best way to avoid accidents is to read the operators manual and safety instructions – and take them seriously. Learn about all of the controls and safety features on any power equipment before using.
Dress Properly – You need to wear sturdy, stable footwear, long pants and clothing that fits closely when operating equipment.
Safety Gear – When appropriate, wear safety goggles or glasses to protect your eyes from projectiles and ear plugs when operating loud equipment.
Clear the Way – Before mowing, carefully examine the yard and remove sticks, stones or any material that can become projectiles. Some of the most common injuries occur because of flying debris.
Keep an Eye Out – Make sure the yard is clear of people or pets before mowing or using power equipment. Children and pets should ideally be kept indoors while you are working.
Keep a Clear Head – Never use alcohol, narcotics or any type of medication that can cause impairment when using power equipment.
