Many people look forward to spending time in their yard when the weather outside is nice. However, there are many hazards that can make your time outside less enjoyable. You can take the following steps to ensure that everyone is safe while in the yard.
Get Rid of the Tripping Hazards
Someone could get seriously hurt if they trip over something in the yard. That is why you need to walk around your yard and try to remove everything that something can trip over. This includes things such as toys, yard equipment, and pine cones.
Remove Toxic Plants
Small children and pets have a tendency to try to put everything in their mouths. There are many plants that can be poisonous if they are ingested. Common toxic plants include mistletoe, black locust, wisteria, elephant ear plants, and oak leaves. Try to get rid of all of the toxic plants.
Have Your Yard Sprayed for Bugs
Bugs can make outdoor time unpleasant. Not only are they a nuisance, but they can also cause painful bites. You should have your yard sprayed by a professional for bugs. One of the benefits of hiring a professional is that they can get to the root of the problem. This can help prevent the problem from coming back once it is gone.
Install a Fence
You can ensure that your pets and children stay inside the yard by installing a fence. There are fences that are self-closing and latching. You should also explain to your children why they should stay inside of the fence.
Install Outdoor Lighting
You don’t have to go inside just because the sun has gone down. Everyone can safely play outside after dark if there is outdoor lighting. Not only does outdoor lighting make it easier for everyone to see, but it can also deter a potential burglar. You may also want to install motion-activated lights near the doors.
Be Careful When You Are Using the Grill
Cookouts are a fun way to spend a nice day. However, if a pet or child gets near a grill, then they could get seriously hurt. You should keep the grill away from areas where pets and children play. It is also important to tell children why they should not get close to the grill.
Make Sure Play Structures Are in Good Shape
Playground equipment provides children with an outlet for both fun and exercise. However, playground equipment tends to wear down over time. If there are rotting wood pieces, damaged floorboards, and loose steps, then they need to be repaired and placed as soon as possible.
Be Careful Around the Pool
Even though small children have the highest rates of drowning, it is a risk for everyone. The vast majority of drownings take place in residential pools. In order to prevent drowning, no one should be allowed to swim alone. You may also want to purchase a safety barrier for your pool.
Additionally, hot tubs are a backyard hazard. Even though they are more shallow than pools, they can also cause drowning. A hot tub should be treated with the same type of caution as a pool. Put a lid over the hot tub when it is not being used.
No one should be allowed to sit inside a hot tub for more than 15 minutes at a time. Prolonged hot tub sitting can lead to dizziness. Furthermore, no one should be allowed to bring glassware inside of the hotel.
Keep Your Yard in Good Shape
A well-maintained yard not only looks nice but also helps everyone stay safe. It is easier for snakes to hide in areas with tall grass and brash. The majority of snakes are harmless, but many people cannot tell the difference between a harmful snake and a harmless one.
You can maintain your yard by cutting the grass on a regular basis. You should also trim bushes and hedges around your home. If this isn’t something that you can take care of yourself, then you should hire a professional.
Secure Your Shed
Children and pets can wander into the shed and get themselves hurt. You should secure your shed with locks. It is a good idea to purchase a lock that can withstand hacksaws, crowbars, and pliers to deter burglars.
