By Donna V. Scaglione
As the calendar moves closer to spring, perhaps you’re thinking about getting the house into springtime shape. If heavy-duty cleaning is on your do-to list for the next few weeks, think through the tasks that lie ahead. Chances are they are going to involve physical labor at times, so you want to be safe.
According to the Home Safety Council, home-related injuries account for about 20,000 deaths and 21 million medical visits a year, and falls — from ladders, tripping, and other accidents — are responsible for an average of 5.1 million injuries and 6,000 deaths a year. Here are some ways to work safely in your home and keep your body feeling fine.
1. Prevent falls
It’s easy to get caught up with the task at hand and not pay attention to what may be piling up around you while you clean and sort through items. If you’re reorganizing and cleaning out closets, make sure you are keeping the nearby floor, steps, and landing free of clutter. If you’re carrying things to get rid of out to the garage or down to the basement, be certain you can see over your load, and keep a free hand for holding onto banisters, safety experts advise.
In general, keep things put away to prevent trips and falls, and always keep walking areas clear from electrical and telephone cords.
