Yard & Garden Prep: Preventing Injuries from Tools and Equipment

Spring yard work brings warmer weather—and unfortunately, thousands of preventable injuries each year. From lawn mowers to ladders, outdoor equipment can cause serious harm if not used properly.

Taking simple precautions can prevent cuts, falls, burns, and even amputations.

🛠 Potential Hazards

• Lawn mower blade injuries

• Power tool lacerations

• Falls from ladders

• Eye injuries from flying debris

• Chemical exposure from fertilizers and pesticides

• Heat exhaustion during early warm spells

Children are especially at-risk around powered equipment.

✅ Safety Tips

Before You Start

• Inspect equipment for damage.

• Read and follow manufacturer instructions.

• Wear protective gear: gloves, eye protection, long pants, and sturdy shoes.

Lawn Mower Safety

• Never allow children to ride on mowers.

• Clear debris before mowing.

• Turn off equipment before unclogging blades.

• Use a mower with a blade control system that stops the blade when the handle is released.

Ladder Safety

• Use the right ladder for the job.

• Place on stable, level ground.

• Maintain three points of contact.

• Avoid overreaching.

Chemical Safety

• Store chemicals in original containers.

• Keep out of reach of children.

• Follow label directions precisely.

🚨 What To Do in Case of Injury

• For severe bleeding: Apply firm pressure and call 911.

• For eye injuries: Do not rub; flush gently with clean water and seek medical care.

• For suspected fractures: Immobilize and seek urgent care.

• For chemical exposure: Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.