Safty Tips

 

 Child Proofing

 

     Is your home designed for kids?  Probably not.  But it is important to create a home that is safe for kids, even if you don't have chilldren, especially if you want it to appear family friendly.

 

     Safety gates, outlet covers and cabinet locks are some of the more obvious tools to child-proof you home, but potential hazards lurk elsewhere.  Think about how kids often run into a room -- and think about the sharp corners of tables counters and bookshelves.  In the kitchen, consider installing padding on the corners of islands and countertops.  You might also want to consider installing a stovetop barrier to prevent pots from falling or being pulled off the stove and to protect children from hot splatters and spills.

 

     Floor vents can also attract curious hands:  if pulled out from the floor, the grate's sharp edges can be dangerous.  To deal with this danger, screw the vents into the floor.  Standard doorstops - the kind with the rubber tips - are another often overlooked hazard.  The tips can easily be pulled off and pose a potential choking hazard.  Consider replacing these with solid, one-piece doorsstops.

 

     These solutions for warding off accidents are easy and inexpensive and worthwhile in more ways than one.

                                       Source:  Ron Hazelton's House Calls (www.ronhazelton.com)

 

 

 

 

Spring is Around the Corner

 

     Spring and Summer seems to bring out the home-improvement expert in everyone.  It is the perfect time to tackle those projects - large and small - that have been lingering.  And whether you are bringing out the lawn mower for the first time, getting ready to clean the gutters or repairing odds and ends, consider these important safety tips:

 

 

MOWERS:

 

  • Before mowing the lawn, do a walk-through of the area and remove any large sticks or debris.
  • Wear clothing that offers protection, like sturdy closed-toe shoes and safety glasses or goggles.
  • Do not clean the grass exit of the mower by hand, and keep the mower on grass, not pavement, which can kick up debris.

 

LADDERS:

 

  • When using a ladder, place it on level ground and open it completely, making sure all locks engage.
  • Always face the ladder when climbing and use slip-resistant shoes.
  • Stand at or below the highest safe standing level on a ladder.  For extension ladders, it's the fourth rung from the top.

 

POWER TOOLS:

 

  • Remember to keep tools away from heat, oil and sharp edges.
  • Disconnect tools when they're not in use or when you are replacing a blade, bit or part.
  • Keep your work areas well lighted and wear gloves and appropriate footwear when using tools.

Source:  Home Safety Council:  Occupantional Safety and Health Adminstration