20 Jun Backyard safety
Backyard safety
Many Canadians spend a lot of their time working and relaxing in their backyards during the warmer months. Find out how to enjoy your backyard safely.
Yard work safety tips
When working in your backyard, it is important to know how to safely use your power tools and equipment. You can avoid injury and accidents by maintaining these items.
- Read, understand and follow the manufacturer’s instructions before using a power tool. Equipment should only be used for its intended purpose.
- Inspect equipment before use to make sure that it is in good working order and safety guards are in place.
- Remove rocks, sticks, toys and tools from the lawn before using power equipment.
- Before plugging in any power equipment, make sure the power switch is turned off.
- Keep children away from the mowing area and never allow them to operate or ride a lawnmower.
- Never mow or use electrical equipment in wet conditions. A lawnmower can overturn on a slope or wet grass and rocks and debris can fly out from underneath. Never operate tools with frayed cords or during wet conditions as there is potential for electric shock.
- If the blades of a power lawnmower become clogged, turn off or unplug the machine before clearing it. Use a stick or other tool to remove the clogged debris in case the blades complete a rotation after clearing.
Wear protective gear
Always wear proper gear when using power tools, such as:
- leather shoes
- workboots
- gloves
- safety glasses
- hearing protection
Loud noise from power garden equipment can gradually cause permanent hearing loss and the inability to hear warning sounds.
Outdoor torches and fuels
- Flammability
- Even when used correctly, lit torches are an open flame source.
- Never leave a burning torch or candle unattended.
- Do not use torches near anything that can catch fire (like flammable decorations, compostable materials and clothing).
- Toxicity
- When a torch or other liquid fuel carries toxicity warnings, swallowing the contents can cause severe health effects or death.
- Keep fuel containers in a well-ventilated area, out of the sight and reach of children.
Source : Gouvernment of Canada / Health Canada
INFO : 1 800 567-0927