Huron County, ON – ‘Tis the season for putting up holiday lights outside your home. But the Huron County Health Unit is reminding people to not let it be the season for a fall from a ladder.
“Ladder falls at home peak around this time of year,” says Alycia Kelly, Public Health Promoter with the health unit. “That’s because people are cleaning eaves troughs and hanging seasonal decorations such as lights.”
Men are most affected, representing more than 80% of emergency department visits and hospitalizations for injuries related to falls from ladders. The rates are highest in 50-64 year olds.
To use ladders safely, follow these tips:
- Never use a ladder by yourself. Always have someone hold the bottom of the ladder for you.
- For every 4-up, place the ladder base 1-out from the wall.
- Take time to move the ladder to avoid over-reaching. If your belt buckle crosses the ladder on either side, you’re reaching too far.
- Always face the ladder when you are climbing and wear slip-resistant shoes.
- Ladders conduct electricity. Don’t use a ladder near power lines.
For more information, check out the health unit’s website at www.huronhealthunit.ca
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