GARDENING SAFETY TIPS

 

When gardening,  follow these safety tips. 

 

Always

 

- Read and follow instructions.
- Check lawn and work areas for hazards such as rocks, nails, broken glass.
- Keep children at a safe distance.
- Use protective gear such as gloves, ear protection, eye protection, etc. - Wear proper shoes or boots when operating hand tools and power equipment.

Tool Safety

- Learn to operate equipment properly and safely and make sure it is in good working order before use.
- Put tools away immediately after use and store tools out of children's reach.
- Be careful with sharp or pointed tools such as rakes, lawn mowers and lawn edgers.
- Keep hands and feet away from cutting blades, moving parts and hot surfaces.
- Do not use electrical tools in wet conditions.
- Turn motorized tools off and disconnect power source before cleaning or servicing them.

 

Chemicals and Flammables

 

- Avoid smoking, sparks or open flame near flammable materials and gas-powered equipment.
- Use chemicals only where children and pets will not come into contact with them.
- Store chemicals in original containers with proper labels and according to directions. Put them away after use.

 

Source: Health Canada

 

 

Mowing your Lawn

 

Before mowing your lawn, check for stones, toys, sticks or any other debris.  If expelled from the mower, these items can cause bodily injuries or property damage.  Be sure to sharpen the mower's blade at least once a year.  A dull blade can damage a healthy lawn and make it more susceptible to disease.