Temperatures are rising, birds are chirping and flowers are beginning to bud. It's the time of year when many consumers venture outside to take on spring cleaning projects around their home. While many folks look forward to working in the garden and around the house, more than 400,000 injuries occur each year as a result of mishaps related to lawn mowers, electric tools. and ladders.

Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL) is kicking off its "Spring into Safety" campaign to remind consumers that, while spring cleaning projects can be enjoyable for the whole family, there are certain simple precautions that should be taken before using lawn and garden equipment, power tools, and ladders. The safety experts at UL are encouraging consumers across America to make safety a priority this season to avoid mishaps that could result in a trip to the emergency room.

As part of "Spring into Safety," UL is emphasizing to consumers the importance of being familiar with the tools they are using and to carefully read all assembly, use, and care instructions that accompany their products. Other important tips include looking for the familiar UL Listing Mark before purchasing a power tool, garden appliance, or electrical product, and carefully inspecting tools and equipment for damage prior to use.

The safety experts at UL recommend consumers follow these additional safety tips when working with ladders, lawn mowers, and lawn and garden tools:

Ladders

• Always use a ladder that is long enough for the job at hand. A great number of ladder mishaps are the result of using a ladder that is too short.
• Don't carry equipment while climbing a ladder. Invest in a tool belt, or have someone hand the equipment to you.
• Face the ladder when climbing up and down; keep your body centered between both side rails.
• While up on the ladder, don't overextend your reach. Make sure you keep your weight evenly distributed.

Lawn and garden tools

• When using garden appliances and power tools, always wear proper attire. Keep your clothing, hands, and feet away from cutting blades at all time. Never wear jewelry when working with tools. Always wear safety glasses.
• Pay attention to warning markings. Don't allow tools to get wet unless they're labeled "immersible." When using tools or extension cords outside, make sure they are appropriate for outdoor use.
• Never alter a product or remove safety features, such as blade guards or electric grounding pins.
• Check the switch on a power tool or garden appliance to make sure it's in the "OFF" position before you plug it in.

Lawn mowers

• Always start the mower outdoors. Never operate the mower where carbon monoxide can collect, such as in a closed garage, storage shed, or basement.
• If you have a gasoline-fueled mower, store the gas in a UL Listed safety can. Fill the mower outside, using a funnel to prevent spills. Stay away from possible ignition sources and replace the gas cap firmly when done.
• Electrically powered mowers should not be used on wet grass. Use an extension cord designed for outdoor use and rated for the power needs of your mower.
• Make sure all safety guards are in place and keep the mower's blades sharp. If you do hit a foreign object or have a mower malfunction, remember to turn off the mower and disconnect the power cord before inspecting for damage.

By following the manufacturer's instructions as well as UL's recommended safe-use tips, you and your family can enjoy longer, safer use of your ladders, lawn, garden equipment, and mowers. For more information on spring safety tips, visit UL's Web site at www.ul.com or call UL's fax-on-demand line at (800) 473-4766.

UL is an independent, not-for-profit product safety certification organization that has been testing products for public safety for more than a century. More than 14 billion products bearing the UL Mark enter the marketplace every year.

Published: May 11, 1998

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