Stay Safe While Working in Your Yard This Summer

In 2006, over 140,000 people were treated for injuries as a result of working with lawn and garden equipment, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). With spring rapidly approaching, thousands of homeowners will venture into their yards, unaware of the potential dangers lurking there. Injuries---- ranging from insect bites and back injuries, to broken bones and heat stroke---- will affect many garden enthusiasts. Stay safe and minimize your chances of injuries this season by following a few safety guidelines.

Before you head outdoors this spring, stay safe and remember to apply sunscreen generously to any area that might be exposed to the sun. Sunscreen blocks the harmful UV rays that can lead to sunburn and eventually skin cancer. If you find yourself outdoors for long periods of time, remember to reapply your sunscreen at regular intervals to maximize your protection.

The warmer weather also brings swarms of insects to your yard. Mosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus as well as spiders, gnats and other annoying bugs will all be drawn to the sweat your body produces as you toil in the yard. Stay safe and prevent being 'eaten alive' by applying a bug repellent to your skin and clothing before heading outside.

If you will be operating any power tools or gardening equipment, make sure that their safety devices are on prior to using and that there are no loose handles or defective parts. Ladders should be inspected on a regular basis for cracks in the wood and loose rungs that may contribute to falls. Stay safe and reduce your risk of electrocution by never working around water with powered lawn and garden equipment. If you are working near power lines, always maintain a proper distance and be careful carrying metal ladders.

Before you plant a single bulb this season, you will want to make sure you are dressed properly for the occasion. Wear loose fitting cotton clothing to keep you cool while you are working in your yard and wear slip resistant closed toed shoes. Thorny bushes and plants can cause nasty cuts and scrapes, so stay safe by wearing gardening gloves that are both thick and durable.

The height of lawn care season coincides with the peak of summer and along with it, the risk of heat stroke. To stay safe and prevent heat stroke, avoid gardening between the hours of 11am-6pm when the sun and temperature are at their worst. But the best way to stay safe and prevent heat stroke this summer is to maintain adequate hydration. Water and sports drinks will not only quench your thirst but also replace the fluids and electrolytes that are lost as your body sweats.

Working in your yard is a wonderful way to get in touch with nature, beautify your home and stay in shape. Stay safe working in your yard this season and you will find that cultivating your green thumb is easy.