Tis the season to deck the halls. Unfortunately, it can also be our season for back, knee, and hand injuries. At South Mountain we see an increase in the number of these kinds of injuries in November and early December often as a result of accidents while hanging Christmas decorations. We offer a few holiday safety tips to help you make it through the season without requiring a visit to your physician or physical therapist.
Using a Ladder
Injuries resulting from a fall from ladders are common. Many such injuries can be prevented by taking some precautions before hanging the Christmas lights or placing the star atop the tree. Consider some of the following before stepping on the first rung.
-
Before using a ladder, especially a ladder that has been stored in the garage for a while, inspect it for cracks or broken joints.
-
Place your ladder on a stable, flat surface. Don’t place a ladder on top of another object.
-
Place the base of a ladder 1 foot away of whatever it leans against for every 4 feet of height to the point where the ladder contacts at the top.
-
When using an A-frame stepladder, make sure the brace is locked in place.
-
If climbing onto another surface, make sure the ladder extends at least three feet past the platform you're climbing onto.
-
Secure tall ladders by lashing or fastening the ladder to prevent movement.
-
Always face the ladder when climbing or descending.
-
Keep both feet on the ladder - never put one foot on a rung and the other foot on a different surface.
-
Do not climb higher than the second rung on stepladders or the third rung on straight or extension ladders.
-
Never stand on the top or the paint shelf of a stepladder.
-
Keep your belt buckle (if you have one) positioned between the rungs so it doesn't catch.
-
When working with electricity, use a ladder made of wood or fiberglass.
Hanging Christmas Tree Lights
Hanging outdoor Christmas lights is difficult and potentially dangerous. By taking some basic precautions, you can avoid painful injury and enjoy the holiday season with friends and family.
-
Use a tool belt or apron with pockets to store all your supplies while you are working.
-
Do not lean when you are working on the ladder. Work at arm’s length.
-
Check all your Christmas light sets for damage. Plug them in before stringing them up. Replace all broken or non-working bulbs with new bulbs of the same type and wattage. Check to see that wires are not frayed or damaged.
-
Make sure that all your lights are approved for outdoor use.
-
Your extension cords must also be safe for outdoor use. Use extension cords properly. Outdoor cords can be used inside or outside. Do not overload extension cords - they can get hot enough to burn
-
Always use holders or hooks for lights. Staples, nails and tacks can pierce the wiring and cause an electrical short. Put up your hooks, clips or holders first. Then string your lights. This way you are not juggling everything at once.
-
All outdoor electrical decorations should be plugged into a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI). You can buy portable units for outdoor use, or you can have them permanently installed by an electrician.
The holiday season is a special time of year to be with family and friends. Be safe during the holidays and provide yourself and your family the gift of health.
|
