Scripps Howard News Service

By Dwight Barnett 

It's time to decorate the home or office for Christmas, hanging lights from the roof or ceilings or mistletoe above the doors. That means it's also time to consider a few safety tips on the use of a ladder.

Unfortunately, there are more than 300 deaths and 130,000 ladder-related injuries reported in the United States each year, according to a study released by the University of Missouri. But what focused my attention on the subject was a neighbor leaning an extension ladder against his home at such a steep angle that it seemed as though the ladder would slip right out from under him. Luckily it did not, but his experience is the exception, not the norm.

A ladder should be set against a solid surface at an angle of four feet in one foot. Or, said another way, for every four feet of ladder height, the base of the ladder should be no more than 1 foot from the surface it's leaning against.

And please read all the literature and instructions that come with each ladder purchased. Few are exactly alike, including their load-bearing capacity. Them once safely on a ladder, do not try reaching so far that you lose your balance. Stretching and leaning to the side have resulted in countless falls and injury; you should always keep your body between the ladder's rails. Move the ladder so that you can safely reach your work.

Nonskid feet or spurs may prevent a ladder from slipping on a hard, smooth surface. Just to be sure, however, it is wise to further secure the feet by tying, driving stakes or by blocking the base against lateral movement. And do not stand on the top three rungs, nor stand on top of a stepladder.

Stepladders should be securely spread open. Never use a folding stepladder in an unfolded position.

Inspect the ladder before each use. A damaged side rail may cause one side to give way, and a damaged rung can cause a fall.

Ladders used to access a roof must extend at least three feet beyond the roof. And extension ladders need both locks secured to prevent overloading of a rail or total failure of the ladder.

Electrical shock can occur with metal or wet wooden ladders; not only is the shock itself dangerous, but it can cause falls that result in injury or death. Be aware of overhead power lines.

Obviously, avoid using a ladder in a strong wind. But also do not use a ladder in front of a door unless it is locked, blocked or guarded.

Only one person at a time should be on the ladder.

And make sure the ladder is appropriate for the job. Replace any ladder that is bent, broken or otherwise damaged.

Always face the ladder and use both hands on the rungs, not the rails, when climbing up or down. Carry your tools and other materials in a tool belt or pouch, or use a rope to raise and lower them.

(Dwight Barnett is a certified master inspector with the American Society of Home Inspectors. Write to him with home improvement questions at C. Dwight Barnett, Evansville Courier & Press, P.O. Box 268, Evansville, Ind. 47702.)