The Do's and Don'ts of Yard Work

Now that the snow is gone, it's time to get the yard into shape for summer. Debris which gathered under shrubs and along fences can be collected, along with leaves, sticks and other natural clutter. It may be seem like an easy chore, but beware; disaster can lurk under the brush.

Here are some safety tips to ensure a trouble-free spring spruce up.

* Do limber up! The itch to get active is great, but remember where you spent most of the winter! Doing too much too fast can create pain and needless discomfort from muscle strain.

* Do raking before you cut. Before you mow your grass, rake it to ensure you've collected any stones, bottle caps, twigs or other debris that could become a projectile under the blade.

*  Don't mow your toes! Give your lawnmower a spring tune up and safety check before you start it. Always keep small children and pets away from a running power mower.

* Don't wear loose clothing and never operate a power mower in bare feet.

* Don't use electrical appliances in wet or damp areas. Always use extra caution with outdoor electrical tools. If someone sustains an electric shock, turn off the power source before you try to help the person.

* Do store fertilizers, pesticides and other toxic chemicals safely. When handling pesticides, fertilizer or other chemicals, always wear protective clothing, such as gloves, goggles and a mask.

* Do use a ladder safely. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. Don't overreach when trying to get to something.

* Don't fool with fire. Burning debris can be extremely hazardous. There's always the chance of th fire getting out of control and burning more than you bargained for. If the smoke and fumes from the release of unknown toxins don't get you, the police might as open burning is illegal in many urban areas.

* Don't fall off the roof. If your annual ritual includes cleaning eaves, use extra caution. Tie yourself off with ripe to a sturdy fixture, such as the chimney, before working near the edge of the roof.

* Don't take safety for granted. Get first aid training and products.

                              First Aid for Absorbed Poisons

Most poisons absorbed by the skin cause irritations at the place of contact, but rarely affect the rest of the body. The irritation, called contact dermatitis, can  include redness, itching and blister.

Here are the actions to reduce the effect of poisonous plants.

* Do a complete body survey to locate all infected areas.

* Flush the area with large amounts of clear, cool water.

* Remove any clothing that has been in contact with the poisonous substance. Don't touch the clothing again until it has been thoroughly washed.

* Try not to touch the affected part of the body to other parts of the body as this may spread the infection.

* Wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water. Pay careful attention to hidden areas such as scalp and under fingernails.

* Seek medical care for serious conditions that don't respond well to treatment.

For more useful information, visit www.safecanada.ca