As you’re well aware, the Holiday Season seems to start earlier and earlier every year. By early November, Christmas music is already playing around the clock on at least two popular local radio stations. Most national retailers have been in full holiday mode for months, and at many local grocery and drug stores, the Halloween aisle becomes the Christmas aisle within days. Even in our neighborhoods, holiday lights go up earlier each year.
I’ll admit—I love it.
But as much as I enjoy the early decorating spirit, I’m aware that hanging lights on a sunny Saturday in mid-November is a lot safer than scrambling to do it on an icy weekend in mid-December. Every year, as I reach from the end of my extension ladder to decorate the peak of my house, I’m reminded just how easy it is to fall. And for full disclosure: I am absolutely “the crazy guy” at the end of the street who over-decorates his house with lights.
Even if you aren’t like me, you may want to read on for some tips to help you decorate safely this holiday season—or safely take your decorations down once January arrives.
Most people don’t think of a sports medicine column as a place to learn about holiday decorating safety, but if you fall off a ladder, you can sustain an orthopedic injury very similar to what you’d see after being hit by a linebacker. In fact, more than 500,000 people are treated each year in emergency rooms and doctors’ offices for ladder-related injuries.
Below are some simple, practical ladder safety tips to help you stay safe while decorating—or de-decorating—this season.
Holiday Ladder Safety Tips
Use the Correct Ladder
Use a ladder tall enough for the job.
Indoors: a sturdy stepladder
Outdoors: a taller stepladder or extension ladder
Always check the weight rating. When I bought my own ladder, I quickly learned that several weren’t even rated to support my weight.
Inspect the Ladder Before Use
Never use a ladder that’s damaged, bent, or unstable. Make sure it’s free of snow, grease, mud, or anything that could cause slipping.
Carry and Move Ladders Safely
Carry extension ladders parallel to the ground and in the middle for balance. Stepladders should always be carried closed. And if the ladder is long—get help.
set the Ladder Up Properly
Before setting up outdoors, make sure the ladder won’t hit power lines, tree branches, or other obstacles.
A stable ladder is a safe ladder:
- Place the feet on flat, firm ground
- Use the 4-to-1 rule: 1 foot away from the wall for every 4 feet of ladder height
- If you’re climbing onto the roof, the ladder should extend 3 feet above the roofline
- Ensure extension sections overlap for stability
Climb and Use the Ladder Safely
Before climbing:
- Lock extension mechanisms
- Make sure both ends are on stable surfaces
- Wear clean, slip-free shoes
- Tie shoelaces securely
- Avoid leather soles, which can be slippery
- While on the ladder:
- Face the ladder and stay centered between the rails
- Keep your belt buckle between the side rails—don’t lean
- Never stand on the top rung
- Never stand above the highest safe rung or pivot point
- Don’t overreach; climb down and move the ladder instead
- Only one person on the ladder at a time
- Never use a ladder in high winds
- Avoid use if you tire easily, are dizzy, or are on medications affecting balance
- Do not climb a ladder after drinking
- And never hang light strings while they’re plugged in—electricity and aluminum ladders do not mix
If You’re a Last-Minute Decorator… or Taking Everything Down Later
Whether you’re racing to hang lights on December 22 or pulling everything down in January when the snow is deep and the sidewalks are icy, the same rules apply. In fact, post-holiday takedowns are one of the most common times for ladder injuries because people often rush, the weather is worse, and fatigue sets in.
Slow down. Use the right equipment. And don’t hesitate to ask someone to hold the ladder or help steady it.
When to Seek Medical Care
If you do fall or hurt yourself, don’t hesitate to call for help. Falls from ladders can cause:
- Fractures
- Shoulder injuries
- Knee injuries
- Wrist and hand injuries
- Back or neck pain
Our team at Michigan Orthopaedic Surgeons is here to evaluate and treat these types of injuries, helping you recover safely and fully. If your injury happens after-hours or over the weekend, walk-in to one of our UrgentOrtho Clinics located in Royal Oak and Shelby Township.
For more information on orthopedic injuries, as well as ways to prevent and treat them, visit www.miorthosurgeons.com
About Dr. Joseph Guettler, MD
Dr. Joseph Guettler, MD is an orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine, knee, shoulder, and elbow surgery. He is also a proud member of Michigan Orthopaedic Surgeons.