Transforming your outdoor space into a personal oasis is a rewarding project that many take on, but it’s important to prioritize safety amidst the excitement. As spring approaches, it’s the perfect time to reframe your mindset from purely focusing on landscaping to considering your well-being. Use these home improvement tips to stay safe while doing yard work.
Dress in the Right Clothes
Your first line of defense against yard-related injuries is your attire. Before you grab that weed trimmer, think about dressing for the job. Long pants and sleeves can shield your skin from thorns, biting insects, and overexposure to the sun.
Sturdy, closed-toe shoes provide better traction and protect your feet from unexpected garden hazards such as sharp tools or hidden glass. Investing in a wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses is not just a fashion statement; it safeguards your eyes and face from the sun’s harmful rays.
Ensure You Know How To Use Your Lawn Tools
Another tip for staying safe while doing yard work is to ensure you know how to use your tools. While this may seem like simple common sense, the number of accidents resulting from improper use of lawn tools is a testament to its importance.
Whether using a pruning saw or a power tiller, familiarize yourself with the tool’s manual and how to use it properly. Following the manufacturer’s instructions will lower the risk of potential accidents occurring during use.
Lift Heavy Objects Carefully and Safely
Gardening often involves heavy lifting, from bags of soil to potted plants. Save your back by bending your knees, not your waist, and keep the object close to your body as you stand up. It’s also better to make two trips or create multiple smaller loads than to risk injury by overexerting yourself with a single heavy load.
Don’t Dig Without Checking First
Before you dig anything in your lawn, ensuring you won’t encounter utility lines is paramount. For example, one of the tips for properly installing a flagpole kit is to check with 811 before you put your shovel into the dirt. This simple step can prevent catastrophic damage, electrical hazards, costly repairs, and bodily harm.
Drink Plenty of Water
It’s important to stay hydrated as you work outdoors under the sun. Keep a full water bottle handy and take regular breaks to hydrate, even if you don’t feel particularly thirsty. Dehydration can cause dizziness, fatigue, and decreased cognitive function, which can put you in harm’s way.
Your landscaping endeavors should bring joy and beauty, not hazards. So, as you march into the spring, may these safety tips be the fertilizer for a vibrant, accident-free summer of home improvement projects.
Mom on the go in Holy Toledo 