Every year, thousands of people lose their lives due to unforeseeable accidents at home. What’s even more shocking is that one of the most common household items that seem harmless can lead to fatal injuries.

You may be surprised to know that “1 in 10 Adults Die from This Household Item.”.

What is This Deadly Household Item?

It’s the humble ladder, a household item that we use on a daily basis without a second thought.

Ladders are essential for various tasks such as changing light bulbs, painting walls, cleaning windows, and reaching for items that are out of reach, among other things. However, it is also one of the most dangerous household items that we tend not to pay attention to. A fall from the ladder can lead to fatal injuries that could have been easily prevented with proper safety measures.

The Statistics

The statistics are not anything to take lightly. According to the National Safety Council, falling from ladders leads to over 500,000 injuries and more than 300 deaths each year in the United States alone.

It is alarming to know that this household item is one of the leading causes of unintentional death in the country. The majority of these deaths occurred at homes with roofs, ladders, or scaffolding.

Why is Falling from a Ladder So Dangerous?

It’s common sense to understand that falling from a height can be dangerous, but there are other factors that make a fall from a ladder even more hazardous. One of the primary reasons is the location at which the ladder is set up.

People often place ladders on uneven surfaces, wet floors, narrow spaces, or improperly secure them. When the ladder is not correctly positioned, it can lead to accidents that can cause serious injuries and even death.

The Importance of Proper Ladder Safety

The goal of ladder safety is to prevent accidents from happening. In many cases, accidents occur due to human error. Therefore, it is essential to understand proper safety measures when using a ladder. Here are some essential ladder safety tips:.

1. Inspect Your Ladder First

Always check your ladder before using it. Check for any cracks or damage to the ladder. Ensure that it is stable, and the footpads are secure. Look for any signs of rust and make sure that your ladder is not wobbly in any way.

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2. Position Your Ladder Correctly

Positioning your ladder is crucial to ensure safety. Always place your ladder on a level surface that is not slippery. Avoid positioning your ladder on stairs, narrow spaces, or any uneven surface. Also, ensure that it’s at the correct angle.

The ladder angle is one-foot away from the wall for every four feet of ladder height. For example, if your ladder is 12ft, you should position it 36 inches from the contact point (the wall).

3. Don’t Overreach

Overreaching is hazardous and can lead to fatal injuries. Always keep your hips within the two rails of your ladder to ensure stability. If you have to reach something, climb down and reposition your ladder.

Overreaching puts undue stress on the ladder and often leads to accidents.

4. Use the Correct Ladder for the Job

Using the wrong ladder for the job can lead to accidents and injury. For instance, if you need to fix something at an elevated height, don’t use a step-ladder. Instead, use an extension or straight ladder that is appropriate for the job.

5. Climbing and Descending Your Ladder Safely

Always use both hands to climb and descend a ladder. Maintain three points of contact to ensure stability. This means that both feet and one hand, or both hands and one foot, should be in contact with the ladder at all times.

6. Stay Alert and Focused

Climbing a ladder requires focus and attention. Avoid climbing a ladder when you are fatigued or under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Ensure that you have a clear mind before using a ladder.

Conclusion

Don’t underestimate the potential hazards associated with ladders. As the statistics show, falling from ladders is a serious problem that leads to numerous injuries and fatalities each year.

Following the ladder safety tips mentioned above can help reduce the risk of such accidents. If you tend to use ladders frequently, invest in high-quality ladders that are designed to prevent accidents.