By Angel Everett
Soon, the holidays will be upon us and cold weather will
make it less than inviting to get outside. But while the weather is still enjoyable, it’s a great time to spruce up the yard and make it safer to enjoy!
Since falling is the #1 cause of accidental deaths among seniors, it’s imperative to keep your yard and entry safe to use. Tripping hazards should be the number one priority in the garden as well as in your home. Other concerns on safety are lighting and accessibility. You need to make sure your porch lights are adequate and your walks and steps are in good working order – free from obstructions. Rails should also be inspected for their reliability. Who wants to grab for support if it won’t do its job!
If you’re still using your outdoor furniture, you may wish to put off storing it for a while. This might be a great time to clean up and store your grills and barbeques. They’ll last much longer if stored inside for the winter.
The first thing we do when tackling yard clean-up is to grab a bucket and my trusty radio-flier wagon. We bought it for my first grandson when he was just a baby. The truth is, we’ve gotten more use out of it than he has. It’s wonderful for garden chores. We pick up trash and items we want stored before we do our maintenance. We can see better what needs to be done, once the clutter is gone.
Tools to have handy – Pruning shears, shovels, garbage can or bags, bucket of soapy water, paper towels, rake, yard broom, and a buddy won’t hurt! Make sure your shoes have soles that keep you from slipping while you wash your sidewalks and patio.
Start with your porches and entries –
Check to see if your porch light is working right. Use the highest watt bulb allowed by the manufacturer. Also make sure that foliage isn’t obstructing the light. Clean off the glass or plastic guards. Trim back any shrubs or tree limbs that obstruct the light. It’s also a good time to give the door and windows a good cleaning. Check to see if the weather stripping is in good shape.
Make sure your steps are clear from encroaching foliage. Any clutter that has accumulated around your door or steps should be stored or tossed. You might want to wash and clean your steps with water and your yard broom to keep slippery mold and moss from causing a fall.
Check your handrails for sturdiness. You might need help if rails need reinforcing. Gutters over your porches may also need to be cleaned. You don’t want excess water falling on your head and making puddles on your porch. Get help for this chore. Never climb a ladder without someone to spot you! There are some neat gadgets you can attach to your hose that allows you to flush your gutters without your feet leaving the ground.
Sidewalks and lawns –
Sidewalks should be in good shape and free of clutter and leaves. Give your sidewalks a good wash and scrub to eliminate slipping hazards. Trim back shrubbery or plants that are creeping over the walks. Check the lawn for divots and holes. Fill holes and divots with extra dirt. While the lawn is a lot softer to fall on, do you really want to take a tumble?
Garage Entrance –
If you have a detached garage, you’ll need to check on the light outside the entry – make sure it’s working and the glass is cleaned. Walkways leading to the garage should also be free of clutter, encroaching shrubbery and leaves. Great time to give that door a scrub also!
Patios and decks –
Look for loose boards on your decks and trim back any plants from the steps. Give the patio a scrub with your stiff yard broom and spray it off well. Check your patio lights and it might be a good time to invest in those little solar lights. We love putting them in our potted plants near the sidewalks.
We hope weve inspired you to get your yard in shape for safety’s sake!
submitted by Nelson Landing, guest writer
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