Quick Yard Work Safety Checklist<\/span><\/h2> Before you start any landscaping project, run through this essential safety checklist:<\/p>
\u2713 Warm up for 10 minutes before starting heavy work
\u2713 Lift with your legs, not your back
\u2713 Wear protective gear (safety glasses, gloves, sturdy closed-toe shoes)
\u2713 Clear the yard of debris before using equipment
\u2713 Take breaks every 30 minutes
\u2713 Stay hydrated, especially in hot weather
\u2713 Use hearing protection with loud equipment
\u2713 Keep children and pets away from work areas<\/p>
\t\t\t \t\t\t\tIn this article:<\/strong><\/div> \t\t\t\t \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t\t\t- Quick Yard Work Safety Checklist<\/a><\/li>
- Warm up before you work<\/a><\/li>
- Master the power position for lifting<\/a><\/li>
- Prevent mower-related injuries<\/a><\/li>
- Use tools that match your body<\/a><\/li>
- Take strategic breaks<\/a><\/li>
- Protect your hearing<\/a><\/li>
- Watch for heat stress<\/a><\/li>
- Prevent repetitive strain injuries<\/a><\/li>
- Dress for protection: What to wear during yard work<\/a><\/li>
- FAQ on yard work and landscaping safety<\/a><\/li><\/ul> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><\/div>
Warm up before you work<\/span><\/h2> Yard work and landscaping use muscles and joints you might not activate often, so treat it like a workout. Spend about 10 minutes warming up with a brisk walk, gentle arm circles, or light stretching for your back, legs, and shoulders.<\/p>
Stretching before, during breaks, and after you finish helps get your blood flowing and loosen your muscles, reducing the chance of strains or back pain once you start lifting, digging, and hauling. If you’re starting heavy yard work for the first time in months, ease back into it gradually rather than tackling everything at once. <\/p>
Master the power position for lifting<\/span><\/h2> ![\"Woman](\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/AdobeStock_227990939.jpg\")
Straining to remove dead tree. Photo Credit: Voyagerix<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure> Back injuries are one of the most common yard-work problems, and they often happen from lifting the wrong way. The fix is simple: Let your legs do the work, not your back. <\/p>
How to lift safely:<\/strong><\/p> - Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and get as close to the object as possible. <\/li>
- Bend at your knees, not your waist.<\/li>
- Keep your back straight and your core braced.<\/li>
- Lift by pushing through your legs, holding the object close to your body. <\/li>
- Turn with your feet. Don\u2019t twist your torso while carrying anything heavy.<\/li> <\/ol>
I learned this after one painful mistake. A single twist was all it took. I felt something go instantly. Within an hour, I could barely walk. It took me a full week of pain and rehab to recover from that single bad move. <\/p>
And finally, know your limits. If something is too heavy to handle alone, get help or break the load into smaller parts. <\/p>
Prevent mower-related injuries<\/span><\/h2> ![\"Woman](\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/AdobeStock_580350157.jpg\")
Yard debris. Photo Credit: olezzo<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure> A lawn mower may look simple, but its blades can send debris flying or cause serious injuries if handled carelessly. <\/p>
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission<\/a> reports that lawn mowers cause approximately 80,000 emergency room visits annually, with injuries ranging from lacerations and fractures to amputations. Most of these injuries are preventable with proper safety precautions.<\/p> To protect yourself from yard equipment injuries, always clear the work area, wear appropriate protective clothing, and use all safety features properly.<\/p>
Follow these lawn mower safety tips to avoid accidents:<\/strong><\/p> Scan your yard first<\/strong>. Remove sticks, rocks, toys, dog bones, wires, or anything the mower could hit or launch. Lawn mower blades can propel objects at speeds exceeding 100 mph, turning ordinary debris into dangerous projectiles.<\/p> Keep children and pets away<\/strong>.Kids, dogs, and cats should be safely inside or supervised far from the mowing zone. The American Academy of Pediatrics<\/a> reports that an average of 9,351 youths under the age of 20 have suffered lawn mower injuries each year from 2004-2013.<\/p> Wear protective gear<\/strong>. Always wear protective clothing when mowing: sturdy closed-toe shoes, long pants, safety glasses, and hearing protection. Protective clothing shields you from flying debris and reduces injury risk from your lawn mower, string trimmer, or hedge trimmer..<\/p> Stay clear of the blade area<\/strong>. Never put your hands or feet near the deck while your lawn mower is running. <\/p> Use built-in safety features<\/strong>. The guards and automatic shut-off on lawn care equipment are there for a reason; don\u2019t disable or remove them.<\/p> Turn off equipment completely.<\/strong> Before any lawn mower maintenance or clearing clogs, shut off the mower completely and disconnect the spark plug. Turn off your string trimmer before changing string.<\/p> Read more:<\/strong> 8 Essential Lawn Mower Safety Tips<\/a><\/p> Use tools that match your body<\/span><\/h2> The right tools and the right fit can make yard work safer and less tiring. Not all rakes<\/a>, shovels, or pruners work for every body type. Choosing tools suited to your height, strength, and physical needs helps reduce strain and discomfort.<\/p> Grabiela Murza, professional practice associate professor at Utah State University Extension, explains that finding the right fit can take some trial and error.<\/p>
\u201cErgonomic tools can help,\u201d she says, \u201cbut they still need to be tried out to make sure they are ergonomic for the person and their needs.\u201d <\/p>
Murza recommends considering factors like height, arthritis, previous surgeries and injuries, garden layout, and the types of tasks you do most. \u201cTaller people need tools with longer handles to avoid bending, cushioned grips can ease hand strain, and support cuffs can help with shoulder issues,\u201d she adds. <\/p>
Also, keep your tools in good shape, especially after winter storage. Sharp blades cut more efficiently and require less effort, reducing the chance of slipping or overworking your muscles. Check equipment for wear and damage before starting spring projects. <\/p>
Read more:<\/strong> Essential Lawn Care Tools for Every Homeowner<\/a><\/p> Take strategic breaks<\/span><\/h2> Yard work is demanding, and going too long without resting increases your risk of injury. Fatigue leads to sloppy form and makes it easier to miss warning signs from your body. <\/p>
Take short breaks every 30 minutes to stretch and drink water. If you start feeling tired or achy, pause or call it a day. <\/p>
Breaking big projects into smaller tasks and spreading them over multiple days helps you maintain good form and avoid unnecessary strain. This approach is especially important for major spring yard cleanup<\/a> projects that can feel overwhelming after winter.<\/p> Protect your hearing<\/span><\/h2> ![\"Couple](\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/AdobeStock_619780375.jpg\")
Ear protection. Photo Credit: Lars Zahner<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure> Many yard tools and landscaping equipment are loud enough to damage your hearing. <\/p>
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention<\/a>, gas-powered lawn mowers typically produce noise levels between 85-90 decibels, while gas-powered leaf blowers and chainsaws can exceed 100 decibels. Prolonged exposure to sounds above 85 decibels can cause permanent hearing damage. <\/p> If you have to shout to talk to someone nearby while doing yard work, you need hearing protection. <\/p>
Use earplugs or noise-cancelling ear muffs whenever you operate equipment to reduce noise and protect your hearing long-term. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health<\/a> recommends limiting exposure to 85 decibels to no more than 8 hours, with shorter safe exposure times as noise levels increase. <\/p> Watch for heat stress<\/span><\/h2> Yard work in hot weather can lead to heat stress or heat exhaustion. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that approximately 702 heat-related deaths<\/a> occur annually in the United States, with outdoor workers and active individuals at highest risk. A few precautions can keep you safe while working in the sun: <\/p> Stay hydrated<\/strong>. Drink a cup of water every 20 minutes when you are active. \u201cIf you’re sweating a lot, drink sports drinks with electrolytes,\u201d Murza says. <\/p> Plan for cooler hours<\/strong>. Early morning or late afternoon are the best times to do big tasks. The hottest part of the day is generally between 2-4 p.m.<\/p> Dress smart<\/strong>. \u201cWear cool, light-colored loose clothing and wide-brimmed hats,\u201d says Murza. Breathable long sleeves and pants can keep you cooler by shading your skin. <\/p> Use sunscreen<\/strong>. Apply SPF 30 or higher to all exposed skin. The Skin Cancer Foundation<\/a> notes that one blistering sunburn in childhood or adolescence doubles the risk of melanoma later in life, and cumulative sun exposure matters for all ages.<\/p> Take extra breaks<\/strong>. In hot weather, take frequent rests in the shade or indoors with air conditioning. \u201cGive yourself time to adjust if you\u2019ve recently moved to another state,\u201d Murza advises.<\/p> Murza notes that heat exhaustion symptoms include a body temperature between 100-104 degrees, extreme thirst, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, fatigue, and moist, clammy skin.<\/p>
\u201cHeat stroke is more serious,\u201d she adds, \u201cwith symptoms like a temperature over 104 degrees, seizure, slurred speech, hallucinations, and hot, dry skin because the body isn’t producing sweat anymore.\u201d<\/p>
If you or someone shows signs of heat stroke, seek medical help immediately.<\/p>
Prevent repetitive strain injuries<\/span><\/h2> Repetitive motions in gardening can lead to overuse injuries.<\/p>
\u201cI often hear about strain in the lower back, shoulders, neck, wrists, hands or thumbs (De Quervain’s), and knees,\u201d Murza says. <\/p>
Research published in the Journal of Agricultural Safety and Health<\/a> found that musculoskeletal disorders are among the most common health issues for people engaged in regular gardening and yard work, with the lower back, shoulders, and knees most frequently affected.<\/p> To prevent this, switch tasks every 20 minutes and take stretch breaks to give your muscles and joints a rest. Tools can help too, use wheelbarrows or garden carts for hauling, long-handled tools to reduce bending, and knee pads or a bench to take pressure off your knees and back. <\/p>
Dress for protection: What to wear during yard work<\/span><\/h2> Wearing the right gear can protect you from injuries, sun exposure, pests (wasps, bees, fire ants), and flying debris. In yard work, dressing for safety is just as important as using the right tools.<\/p>
According to Murza, some of the most essential gear includes:<\/p>
- Knee pads<\/strong> to ease pressure while kneeling.<\/li>
- Noise-cancelling ear muffs<\/strong> when using loud equipment.<\/li>
- Eye protection or a face shield<\/strong> to block debris.<\/li>
- Sturdy closed-toe shoes<\/strong> to guard against sharp objects or slips.<\/li>
- Protective clothing<\/strong> to shield from the sun, scratches, bugs, and debris.<\/li>
- Gloves suited to the task <\/strong>\u2014 like waterproof gloves for weeding or heavier gloves for handling soil and mulch.<\/li> <\/ul>
FAQ on yard work and landscaping safety<\/span><\/h2> How long should I wait after rain before mowing my lawn?<\/strong> Wait at least 24-48 hours after significant rain before mowing. Wet grass creates several hazards: It clumps and clogs mower blades, makes slopes dangerously slippery increasing fall risk, and wet conditions make electric mowers potentially hazardous.\u00a0Follow this safety checklist when refueling gas-powered lawn mowers, string trimmers, and other lawn care equipment:
Are there specific safety concerns for people with health conditions doing yard work?<\/strong> Yes.\u00a0
Is it safe to work around power lines while trimming trees?<\/strong> Maintain at least 10 feet of clearance from power lines when trimming trees<\/a> or using long tools like pole saws and pruners. Never attempt to trim branches near power lines yourself \u2014 this is extremely dangerous and should only be done by trained professionals.\u00a0If you disturb a beehive or wasp nest<\/a>, move away calmly but quickly without swatting at the insects. Walk away in a straight line rather than running erratically. Seek shelter indoors or in a vehicle if possible.\u00a0Know when to call professionals<\/span><\/h3> Yard work can be satisfying and even good exercise, but it\u2019s important to know your limits. If a task feels too demanding or you don\u2019t have the right tools, it\u2019s better to bring in help than to push through and risk getting hurt.<\/p>
Lawn Love can connect you with professionals for yard cleanup<\/a>, gutter cleaning<\/a>, leaf removal<\/a>, and lawn mowing<\/a> so your yard gets the care it needs, without putting your well-being on the line.<\/p> \t\t\t \t\t\tSources:<\/strong><\/p> \t\t\t<\/span><\/div> \t\t<\/div> \t\t\t Grabiela Murza<\/a>. Professional Practice Associate Professor. Utah State University Extension. Personal Interview.\u00a0<\/p> \u201cPrevent Injury in the Garden with Proper Posture, Tool Use, and Stretches<\/a>.\u201d By Gabriela Murza, Professional Practice Extension Assistant Professor, Health and Wellness\/HEART Initiative. Utah State University Extension.\u00a0<\/p> \u201cFive tips for yard work safety<\/a>.\u201d University of Alabama at Birmingham.<\/p> \u201cYard and Garden Work<\/a>.\u201d By Leslie Woolington. Risk Mgmt\/Loss Ctrl Mgr. Mississippi State University Extension.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p> \u201cYard and Garden Safety<\/a>.\u201d Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center.<\/p> U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission<\/a> – Lawn Mower Safety Statistics<\/p> Centers for Disease Control and Prevention<\/a> (CDC) – Noise and Hearing Loss Prevention<\/p> Centers for Disease Control and Prevention<\/a> (CDC) – Heat-Related Deaths<\/p> National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health<\/a> (NIOSH) – Occupational Noise Exposure<\/p> American Academy of Pediatrics<\/a> – Lawn Mower Safety<\/p> The Skin Cancer Foundation<\/a> – Sun Protection Guidelines<\/p>
\u2713 Lift with your legs, not your back
\u2713 Wear protective gear (safety glasses, gloves, sturdy closed-toe shoes)
\u2713 Clear the yard of debris before using equipment
\u2713 Take breaks every 30 minutes
\u2713 Stay hydrated, especially in hot weather
\u2713 Use hearing protection with loud equipment
\u2713 Keep children and pets away from work areas<\/p>
- Quick Yard Work Safety Checklist<\/a><\/li>
- Warm up before you work<\/a><\/li>
- Master the power position for lifting<\/a><\/li>
- Prevent mower-related injuries<\/a><\/li>
- Use tools that match your body<\/a><\/li>
- Take strategic breaks<\/a><\/li>
- Protect your hearing<\/a><\/li>
- Watch for heat stress<\/a><\/li>
- Prevent repetitive strain injuries<\/a><\/li>
- Dress for protection: What to wear during yard work<\/a><\/li>
- FAQ on yard work and landscaping safety<\/a><\/li><\/ul> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><\/div>
Warm up before you work<\/span><\/h2>
Yard work and landscaping use muscles and joints you might not activate often, so treat it like a workout. Spend about 10 minutes warming up with a brisk walk, gentle arm circles, or light stretching for your back, legs, and shoulders.<\/p>
Stretching before, during breaks, and after you finish helps get your blood flowing and loosen your muscles, reducing the chance of strains or back pain once you start lifting, digging, and hauling. If you’re starting heavy yard work for the first time in months, ease back into it gradually rather than tackling everything at once. <\/p>
Master the power position for lifting<\/span><\/h2>
Straining to remove dead tree. Photo Credit: Voyagerix<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure> Back injuries are one of the most common yard-work problems, and they often happen from lifting the wrong way. The fix is simple: Let your legs do the work, not your back. <\/p>
How to lift safely:<\/strong><\/p>
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and get as close to the object as possible. <\/li>
- Bend at your knees, not your waist.<\/li>
- Keep your back straight and your core braced.<\/li>
- Lift by pushing through your legs, holding the object close to your body. <\/li>
- Turn with your feet. Don\u2019t twist your torso while carrying anything heavy.<\/li> <\/ol>
I learned this after one painful mistake. A single twist was all it took. I felt something go instantly. Within an hour, I could barely walk. It took me a full week of pain and rehab to recover from that single bad move. <\/p>
And finally, know your limits. If something is too heavy to handle alone, get help or break the load into smaller parts. <\/p>
Prevent mower-related injuries<\/span><\/h2>
Yard debris. Photo Credit: olezzo<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure> A lawn mower may look simple, but its blades can send debris flying or cause serious injuries if handled carelessly. <\/p>
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission<\/a> reports that lawn mowers cause approximately 80,000 emergency room visits annually, with injuries ranging from lacerations and fractures to amputations. Most of these injuries are preventable with proper safety precautions.<\/p>
To protect yourself from yard equipment injuries, always clear the work area, wear appropriate protective clothing, and use all safety features properly.<\/p>
Follow these lawn mower safety tips to avoid accidents:<\/strong><\/p>
Scan your yard first<\/strong>. Remove sticks, rocks, toys, dog bones, wires, or anything the mower could hit or launch. Lawn mower blades can propel objects at speeds exceeding 100 mph, turning ordinary debris into dangerous projectiles.<\/p>
Keep children and pets away<\/strong>.Kids, dogs, and cats should be safely inside or supervised far from the mowing zone. The American Academy of Pediatrics<\/a> reports that an average of 9,351 youths under the age of 20 have suffered lawn mower injuries each year from 2004-2013.<\/p>
Wear protective gear<\/strong>. Always wear protective clothing when mowing: sturdy closed-toe shoes, long pants, safety glasses, and hearing protection. Protective clothing shields you from flying debris and reduces injury risk from your lawn mower, string trimmer, or hedge trimmer..<\/p>
Stay clear of the blade area<\/strong>. Never put your hands or feet near the deck while your lawn mower is running. <\/p>
Use built-in safety features<\/strong>. The guards and automatic shut-off on lawn care equipment are there for a reason; don\u2019t disable or remove them.<\/p>
Turn off equipment completely.<\/strong> Before any lawn mower maintenance or clearing clogs, shut off the mower completely and disconnect the spark plug. Turn off your string trimmer before changing string.<\/p>
Read more:<\/strong> 8 Essential Lawn Mower Safety Tips<\/a><\/p>
Use tools that match your body<\/span><\/h2>
The right tools and the right fit can make yard work safer and less tiring. Not all rakes<\/a>, shovels, or pruners work for every body type. Choosing tools suited to your height, strength, and physical needs helps reduce strain and discomfort.<\/p>
Grabiela Murza, professional practice associate professor at Utah State University Extension, explains that finding the right fit can take some trial and error.<\/p>
\u201cErgonomic tools can help,\u201d she says, \u201cbut they still need to be tried out to make sure they are ergonomic for the person and their needs.\u201d <\/p>
Murza recommends considering factors like height, arthritis, previous surgeries and injuries, garden layout, and the types of tasks you do most. \u201cTaller people need tools with longer handles to avoid bending, cushioned grips can ease hand strain, and support cuffs can help with shoulder issues,\u201d she adds. <\/p>
Also, keep your tools in good shape, especially after winter storage. Sharp blades cut more efficiently and require less effort, reducing the chance of slipping or overworking your muscles. Check equipment for wear and damage before starting spring projects. <\/p>
Read more:<\/strong> Essential Lawn Care Tools for Every Homeowner<\/a><\/p>
Take strategic breaks<\/span><\/h2>
Yard work is demanding, and going too long without resting increases your risk of injury. Fatigue leads to sloppy form and makes it easier to miss warning signs from your body. <\/p>
Take short breaks every 30 minutes to stretch and drink water. If you start feeling tired or achy, pause or call it a day. <\/p>
Breaking big projects into smaller tasks and spreading them over multiple days helps you maintain good form and avoid unnecessary strain. This approach is especially important for major spring yard cleanup<\/a> projects that can feel overwhelming after winter.<\/p>
Protect your hearing<\/span><\/h2>
Ear protection. Photo Credit: Lars Zahner<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure> Many yard tools and landscaping equipment are loud enough to damage your hearing. <\/p>
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention<\/a>, gas-powered lawn mowers typically produce noise levels between 85-90 decibels, while gas-powered leaf blowers and chainsaws can exceed 100 decibels. Prolonged exposure to sounds above 85 decibels can cause permanent hearing damage. <\/p>
If you have to shout to talk to someone nearby while doing yard work, you need hearing protection. <\/p>
Use earplugs or noise-cancelling ear muffs whenever you operate equipment to reduce noise and protect your hearing long-term. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health<\/a> recommends limiting exposure to 85 decibels to no more than 8 hours, with shorter safe exposure times as noise levels increase. <\/p>
Watch for heat stress<\/span><\/h2>
Yard work in hot weather can lead to heat stress or heat exhaustion. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that approximately 702 heat-related deaths<\/a> occur annually in the United States, with outdoor workers and active individuals at highest risk. A few precautions can keep you safe while working in the sun: <\/p>
Stay hydrated<\/strong>. Drink a cup of water every 20 minutes when you are active. \u201cIf you’re sweating a lot, drink sports drinks with electrolytes,\u201d Murza says. <\/p>
Plan for cooler hours<\/strong>. Early morning or late afternoon are the best times to do big tasks. The hottest part of the day is generally between 2-4 p.m.<\/p>
Dress smart<\/strong>. \u201cWear cool, light-colored loose clothing and wide-brimmed hats,\u201d says Murza. Breathable long sleeves and pants can keep you cooler by shading your skin. <\/p>
Use sunscreen<\/strong>. Apply SPF 30 or higher to all exposed skin. The Skin Cancer Foundation<\/a> notes that one blistering sunburn in childhood or adolescence doubles the risk of melanoma later in life, and cumulative sun exposure matters for all ages.<\/p>
Take extra breaks<\/strong>. In hot weather, take frequent rests in the shade or indoors with air conditioning. \u201cGive yourself time to adjust if you\u2019ve recently moved to another state,\u201d Murza advises.<\/p>
Murza notes that heat exhaustion symptoms include a body temperature between 100-104 degrees, extreme thirst, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, fatigue, and moist, clammy skin.<\/p>
\u201cHeat stroke is more serious,\u201d she adds, \u201cwith symptoms like a temperature over 104 degrees, seizure, slurred speech, hallucinations, and hot, dry skin because the body isn’t producing sweat anymore.\u201d<\/p>
If you or someone shows signs of heat stroke, seek medical help immediately.<\/p>
Prevent repetitive strain injuries<\/span><\/h2>
Repetitive motions in gardening can lead to overuse injuries.<\/p>
\u201cI often hear about strain in the lower back, shoulders, neck, wrists, hands or thumbs (De Quervain’s), and knees,\u201d Murza says. <\/p>
Research published in the Journal of Agricultural Safety and Health<\/a> found that musculoskeletal disorders are among the most common health issues for people engaged in regular gardening and yard work, with the lower back, shoulders, and knees most frequently affected.<\/p>
To prevent this, switch tasks every 20 minutes and take stretch breaks to give your muscles and joints a rest. Tools can help too, use wheelbarrows or garden carts for hauling, long-handled tools to reduce bending, and knee pads or a bench to take pressure off your knees and back. <\/p>
Dress for protection: What to wear during yard work<\/span><\/h2>
Wearing the right gear can protect you from injuries, sun exposure, pests (wasps, bees, fire ants), and flying debris. In yard work, dressing for safety is just as important as using the right tools.<\/p>
According to Murza, some of the most essential gear includes:<\/p>
- Knee pads<\/strong> to ease pressure while kneeling.<\/li>
- Noise-cancelling ear muffs<\/strong> when using loud equipment.<\/li>
- Eye protection or a face shield<\/strong> to block debris.<\/li>
- Sturdy closed-toe shoes<\/strong> to guard against sharp objects or slips.<\/li>
- Protective clothing<\/strong> to shield from the sun, scratches, bugs, and debris.<\/li>
- Gloves suited to the task <\/strong>\u2014 like waterproof gloves for weeding or heavier gloves for handling soil and mulch.<\/li> <\/ul>
FAQ on yard work and landscaping safety<\/span><\/h2>
How long should I wait after rain before mowing my lawn?<\/strong>Wait at least 24-48 hours after significant rain before mowing. Wet grass creates several hazards: It clumps and clogs mower blades, makes slopes dangerously slippery increasing fall risk, and wet conditions make electric mowers potentially hazardous.\u00a0
What’s the safest way to refuel gas-powered lawn equipment?<\/strong>Follow this safety checklist when refueling gas-powered lawn mowers, string trimmers, and other lawn care equipment:
Are there specific safety concerns for people with health conditions doing yard work?<\/strong>Yes.\u00a0
Is it safe to work around power lines while trimming trees?<\/strong>Maintain at least 10 feet of clearance from power lines when trimming trees<\/a> or using long tools like pole saws and pruners. Never attempt to trim branches near power lines yourself \u2014 this is extremely dangerous and should only be done by trained professionals.\u00a0
What should I do if I accidentally run over a beehive or wasp nest while doing yard work?<\/strong>If you disturb a beehive or wasp nest<\/a>, move away calmly but quickly without swatting at the insects. Walk away in a straight line rather than running erratically. Seek shelter indoors or in a vehicle if possible.\u00a0
Know when to call professionals<\/span><\/h3>
Yard work can be satisfying and even good exercise, but it\u2019s important to know your limits. If a task feels too demanding or you don\u2019t have the right tools, it\u2019s better to bring in help than to push through and risk getting hurt.<\/p>
Lawn Love can connect you with professionals for yard cleanup<\/a>, gutter cleaning<\/a>, leaf removal<\/a>, and lawn mowing<\/a> so your yard gets the care it needs, without putting your well-being on the line.<\/p>
\t\t\t\t\t\tSources:<\/strong><\/p> \t\t\t
<\/span><\/div> \t\t<\/div> \t\t\tGrabiela Murza<\/a>. Professional Practice Associate Professor. Utah State University Extension. Personal Interview.\u00a0<\/p>
\u201cPrevent Injury in the Garden with Proper Posture, Tool Use, and Stretches<\/a>.\u201d By Gabriela Murza, Professional Practice Extension Assistant Professor, Health and Wellness\/HEART Initiative. Utah State University Extension.\u00a0<\/p>
\u201cFive tips for yard work safety<\/a>.\u201d University of Alabama at Birmingham.<\/p>
\u201cYard and Garden Work<\/a>.\u201d By Leslie Woolington. Risk Mgmt\/Loss Ctrl Mgr. Mississippi State University Extension.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>
\u201cYard and Garden Safety<\/a>.\u201d Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center.<\/p>
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission<\/a> – Lawn Mower Safety Statistics<\/p>
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention<\/a> (CDC) – Noise and Hearing Loss Prevention<\/p>
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention<\/a> (CDC) – Heat-Related Deaths<\/p>
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health<\/a> (NIOSH) – Occupational Noise Exposure<\/p>
American Academy of Pediatrics<\/a> – Lawn Mower Safety<\/p>
The Skin Cancer Foundation<\/a> – Sun Protection Guidelines<\/p>
- Noise-cancelling ear muffs<\/strong> when using loud equipment.<\/li>
- Knee pads<\/strong> to ease pressure while kneeling.<\/li>
- Warm up before you work<\/a><\/li>