Safety Issues on Working in the Yard & Flower Gardens

Take simple precautions to safely enjoy yard work.

Yard and garden chores provide exercise and enjoyment but also present many ways to incur injury. Appropriate precautions help ensure safety and minimize the risk of accidents.

Mowers

A 2006 Johns Hopkins University study found that 80,000 Americans are injured by lawn mowers each year. Wear protective clothes, keep extremities clear of the blades, only mow in good weather and do not carry passengers on the mower.

Sunburn

It is easy to become engrossed in pulling weeds and then have to endure sunburn in odd places -- calves, forearms and lower back. If the weather is too hot for protective clothing, wear sunscreen. Quirky wide-brim hats are acceptable garden garb.

Insect Bites

For some individuals insect bites are more than an itchy nuisance. Ticks and mosquitoes can transmit illness, and bee stings can incite dangerous allergic reactions. Steer clear of bees in the yard, and apply repellents to keep the biters away.

Digging

Even when planting only a shrub or two, it is crucial to know where all underground power lines are located. The Risk Management Library keeps an online list of utility contact information for each state. The utility company will survey and mark any cables on your property.

References

• City of Roanoke: Safety Around The Yard
• Georgia Insurance Information Service: Yard Safety Is A Must
• Consumer Affairs; Lawn Mower Injuries Increase Nationwide; 2004
• Consumer Affairs; Lawn & Garden Safety Tips; April 28, 1999
• Risk Management Library: Dig Safe Contacts