| Outdoor Safety |  |
By Danny Cain Outdoor Safety Concerns When we think of being outdoors we inevitably think of good times, relaxation and family get-togethers. Enjoying the outdoor sunshine along with a fresh cool breeze has a way of allowing us to escape the day to day pressures associated with our fast paced lifestyles, careers, financial obligations and personal dilemma's. There are many activities that we can engage in while outdoors. Some of the more pleasurable are focused towards relaxation and recreational activities while others may include more strenuous chores such as yard work and gardening. Many of these activities go without incident but how safe are we when we're outdoors? This article on outdoor safety will explore the many potential hazards of being outside and will provide you with safety recommendations that can reduce the risk of injury to you or your loved one. Remember that safety is just as important outside of the home as it is inside. General Safety Considerations One would never fly a plane without first engaging in some preliminary safety checks. First there is a visual walk around of the plane followed by various systems checks. Yardwork should be no different. One of the first fundamental safety rules related to outdoor work is to make sure that all mowing areas are properly inspected for hidden objects such as toys, surface roots, stones and other potential items that can be missiles if run over with a lawn mower. Since many outdoor-related accidents result from the use of tools and lawn equipment be sure to properly maintain and store all lawn equipment after each use. NEVER store gasoline or other flammable fuels inside of your home. Outdoor equipment, such as chain saws, weed eaters, and other power tools, should be used only upon a thorough review of the operating manual and provided the person using the equipment is both physically and mentally able to use it. You should always turn off and/or unplug power equipment before attempting to work on it. Fuels and additives such as gasoline should be poured in an area that is well ventilated. These chemicals should also be stored in approved containers and labeled with their contents. Always remember to remove ignition keys from all equipment such as tractors or mowers to reduce the likelihood of someone starting them that hasn't been properly trained or supervised. Lawnmower equipment also poses significant danger of injury to those individuals who are unsteady on their feet and have memory lapses or who are impaired. One should always have proper footwear on while operating lawn equipment. If you are into gardening or just general lawn maintenance don't forget the many insecticides, pesticides, and other hazardous chemicals that you use to treat various insects and plant diseases. These chemicals should always be stored in their original containers and kept out of reach of children and persons who are memory impaired. Many homeowners have their yards chemically treated to foster healthy lawns and to reduce weeds. Unfortunately, the chemicals that are often used can pose serious health problems to you and your pets. Most lawn care companies are required by law to provide the necessary warning labels after applying lawn treatments. Be sure to follow the required recommendations after lawn maintenance applications. Another safety consideration of being outdoors is the exposure to the sun. Proper screen protecting agents or lotions should be applied before going outdoors. If you are attempting to get your initial tan for the season be sure that your exposure to the sun is in gradual doses. Also, be aware that persons taking certain medications can be severely affected by sun exposure. Educate and inform yourself about the potential contraindications of medications before going out or allowing someone that you are caring for to go out. |