Mandeep Bhathal Remax Realty Specialists Inc

Spring is here and along with it comes our annual spring cleaning. Here are a few tips that will keep you safe when using an extension ladder:

- Before using a ladder outside, make sure to pick out a spot that is far enough from power lines, contact with live wires can be very dangerous

- Place your ladder on ground level and make sure all the locks are in place

- For extension ladders, use the 4 to 1 rule; for each 4 feet of distance between the floor and the topmost point on your ladder, move the base of the ladder one foot outwards. Suppose the ladder is 16 feet long, you would need to place the base 4 feet out.

- Always face the ladder when climbing and make sure to wear slip resistant shoes such as ones with rubber soles

- Make sure all the steps are dry before getting on the ladder and always keep your body centered on the ladder

- Always stand below the "safe-standing level" on a ladder. For an extension ladder this is the fourth step from the top

- Make sure to read and follow the manufacturers instructions. You can find these on your ladder manual

Whether you're decorating your house, hanging a painting or just doing some cleaning around the yard, here are a few basic ladder safety tips that will help you stay safe:

- Always use a sturdy ladder while climbing and make sure to wear slip-resistant shoes, like ones with rubber soles

- Face the ladder while climbing up and down, and make sure to keep your body centered on the ladder

- Stand below the "safe standing level" on a ladder, for aa stepladder this is the second step from the top

- Make sure all locks on the ladder are in place and keep the ladder on ground level

- NEVER climb a chair, it is far too dangerous so always use a ladder

Yard Cleaning Tips

• Choose nontoxic fertilizers, insecticides and gardening supplies.
• Eliminate any standing water to prevent drowning (buckets, drums, baby pools). Remember that a young child can drown in only a few of inches of water.
• Check the play area for sharp objects, poisonous plants, and tripping hazards.
• Install surfacing under playground equipment. Check play equipment for loose or exposed hardware, broken parts, and stability. Go to http://www.cpsc.gov for more info.
• If you have a pool or spa, it should be enclosed by a four-sided fence with a self-closing and self-latching gate. Learn CPR and have a phone and emergency equipment poolside.
• Children must not be allowed to ride as passengers on lawn mowers or to be towed behind mowers in carts or trailers. They should not be permitted to play on or around the mower when it is in use or in storage.
• Most yard cleanup tools (ladders, weed-eaters, pruning shears) are not safe for children. If your child wants to help in the yard, he or she should use tools designed for children, such as a small plastic rake, child's shovel, or broom.

These tips are from the American Academy of Pediatrics

Garage Cleaning Tips

• Discard toxic and flammable materials you no longer need. Place remaining materials high and out of reach. Keep toxic products in their original containers.
• Check the garage for flammable liquids such as gasoline, paint thinner, paint and cleaners. Make sure safety caps are in place and they are not near any heat sources. Keep only the amount you need to use - don't stock up on extra cans.
• Tidy loose papers, old rags, and debris in the garage that could contribute to a fire.
• When washing the car, clean the car safety seat as well - sticky snacks, crumbs, and drinks can interfere with the crotch buckle and chest clip. Use the instructions to find out how to remove the cover and clean these parts. Take the time to weigh and measure your children to make sure they still fit in the seat. Check that the shoulder straps are the right height. Be sure the seat is installed securely.

These tips are from the American Academy of Pediatrics