With the arrival of Spring, many of us plan and start outdoor projects to prepare the lawn and garden for the warmer months ahead. Unfortunately, a large number of emergency room visits occur every year because of unanticipated outdoor safety hazards. As you begin working in the yard, keep these safety tips in mind:

• Dress for the job. Wear sturdy shoes, clothing that is close fitting, and nothing that can get caught in moving parts of the equipment you are using. Use garden gloves to protect your hands.
• Call Miss Dig. Never start digging until you are fully aware of buried electrical, gas, sewer, telephone and cable lines.
• Read safety manuals and warning label before using tools.
• Protect your eyes and ears when using lawn equipment.
• Clear sticks, rocks and other debris from the lawn before mowing.
• Keep children away from dangerous lawn tools. Never allow children to play around lawnmowers, especially riding mowers.
• Don’t run extension cords through puddles.
• When using a ladder, make sure it is placed on sturdy ground.
• Never operate yard machinery, tools or ladders while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Follow use and cleanup directions on lawn and garden fertilizers, poisons and other products, and wear recommended protective clothing.
• When your finished with your chores, wash your hands.

 These are just a few of the safety precautions to consider during the spring. It is also a good time to ensure you have a working flashlight and battery-powered radio in case of a spring storm. By taking the right precautions as warmer weather approaches, you can enjoy a safer, healthier spring.