What's Going Around? - Spring into Safety

The cold temperatures did not want to go away. But spring is finally here, and you can’t wait to get your yard back in shape. You may have big plans for the great outdoors, but make sure that you take the proper precautions. You may think it only happens to the other guy, but yard work mishaps injure thousands of people every spring. A few simple safety tips can ease the strain and reduce your risk of injury.

Dress for Safety

• Be sure to wear proper shoes. Forget the flip-flops. They won’t protect your feet from debris or give you proper foot support in the yard.
• Long sleeves and pants can help protect you from poison ivy, cuts and other dangers lurking in the bushes.
• Protective gloves with a nonslip surface will help you grip tools and prevent blisters. They also provide protection from thorns and sharp objects.
• Safety glasses or goggles are especially important. Wear them when operating machinery like weed trimmers, lawnmowers, and leaf blowers. They protect your eyes from flying debris and reduce the amount of pollen that can irritate eyes.

Warm Up

Remember to protect yourself by warming up with a few stretches before you begin working. Your muscles will thank you for it. Start with a short walk to loosen the muscles, followed by a 5 to 10 minute stretching session. This will help prevent injury to your back, legs, arms, shoulders and neck.

Take Your Time

• Be sure to pace yourself. Take frequent breaks and drink plenty of water. Proper hydration is important for your muscles and general good health.
• Plan the most strenuous tasks for early morning and evening when it may be cooler.
• Avoid straining muscles by rotating tasks to avoid repetitive movements.

Proper Lifting and Bending

Save your aching back. Remember to bend your knees and use your legs when lifting heavy items. Do not just reach out with your arms. Lift that bag of mulch straight off the ground by bending your knees and keeping your spine straight. Avoid twisting your body and get help if something is too heavy to lift alone safely. Also, remember that kneeling is easier on your back than bending over for long periods of time. Use knee pads, or sit on a garden stool to ease unnecessary stress on your back.

Protect Your Skin

• Don’t forget to use sunscreen to prevent sunburn.
• Hats and long sleeves can also protect you from some of the sun’s rays.
• Bug spray can help keep mosquitoes and ticks at bay.