Ladder Safety a Top Priority

March is National Ladder Safety Month and the Las Cruces Fire Department wants contractors and do-it-yourselfers to consider their wellbeing when using ladders and other elevated platform.

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, nearly half a million people are injured in ladder-related accidents each year across the U.S. Most all ladder-related accidents are easily preventable by following basic rules and tips for ladder safety.

The most basic rule of thumb is to use the right ladder for the job. Step ladders, extension ladders, articulated ladders and elevated platforms, such as scaffolding, all have different recommended uses and are not necessarily interchangeable.

Safety tips:

• Follow all directions and safety recommendations provided by the ladder’s manufacturer.
• Do not use a ladder if you are unfit, injured, on medication, or using alcohol or other substances that may alter balance and physical abilities.
• Set up the ladder on a flat and stable surface that’s free from clutter.
• Never exceed the load rating for the ladder.
• Never climb or stand above the recommended height limit for the ladder.
• Always maintain three points of contact while on a ladder.
• Limit items carried up or down a ladder to what’s reasonably manageable.
• Utilize a spotter or someone who can help stabilize the base of the ladder.
• Do not lean or reach away from atop a ladder as that can make it unstable.
• Never leave a ladder unattended as children may be tempted to climb, or high winds could topple it.
• Avoid climbing near electrical lines or power sources.

Never stack or arrange ladders to reach beyond their designed limits.