Wreaths, bows, and twinkling lights are a few of the many ways people brighten up their homes during the holiday season. Grinnell Mutual recommends using your ladder properly to hang holiday decorations.
“To reduce the chance of falling, make sure you have a stable foundation under your ladder,” said Larry Gallagher, director of loss control at Grinnell Mutual Reinsurance Company. “In addition, use the proper type of ladder for the work you’re performing. Don’t use a step ladder when you really need a 10-foot extension ladder.”
These tips may help prevent a fall from your ladder.
- Inspect the ladder. Confirm that the ladder is in good working condition before you climb it.
- Follow the three point-of-contact rule. When climbing up or down, keep two hands and a foot (or two feet and a hand) on the rungs or side rails.
- Stay off of the top. Always stay off the top two steps and platform of a step ladder. Use an extension ladder for taller tasks.
- Do not overreach the ladder. It’s tempting to stretch out to hang a strand of lights instead of adjusting the ladder. One rule of thumb is to keep your bellybutton between the side rails.
To learn more about ladder safety, visit Preventing Losses on grinnellmutual.com.