Stay Safe: Essential Lawn Care Safety Tips for Homeowners

Howdy folks, it’s Andrew here! As a lifelong gardener from Wisconsin, I know a thing or two about caring for a lawn. While I love seeing yards transformed into verdant, lush landscapes, it saddens me when folks get injured while beautifying their outdoor spaces. As rewarding as lawn care can be, it does pose some risks that need to be handled with care.

In my 20+ years as a gardener, I’ve picked up plenty of lawn care safety tips I’m excited to share with you all today. I aim to equip you with the know-how to keep your lawn in tip-top shape without taking unnecessary risks. From proper use of equipment to dressing right for the task, we’ll cover all the essentials so you can keep your grass green and yourself safe. Shall we get started?

Getting Acquainted with Lawn Care Equipment

Maintaining a pristine lawn requires using various tools and equipment. Before we dive into safety protocols, let’s quickly run through some of the most common lawn care gadgets:

Mowers

These bad boys are essential for every homeowner tending to their lawn. Mowers generally fall into two categories:

• Reel mowers – They operate with laterally mounted blades that slide against a knife as the wheels turn. No engine is required for these old-school tools!
• Rotary mowers – Modern power mowers utilize a high-speed spinning blade concealed underneath a metal deck. Need gas or battery power for these fellas.

String Trimmers

Perfect for reaching those hard-to-mow spots around trees, fences, etc., that your mower misses. They can also double as an edger to crispen the lines along your driveway or garden beds.

Edgers

Speaking of edging, these specialized tools are the ticket for sculpting clean, professional lines along your lawn’s edges. An edger makes your turf look tidy and sharp.

Spreaders

Used to evenly distribute grass seed, fertilizer, or anything else across your lawn. Spreaders come in handheld models, but wheeled ones are easier on the back.

Rakes

A lawn care staple, rakes help gather up leaves and debris and even the soil. You’ll want a leaf rake and a soil rake in your tool shed.

Hedge Trimmers

As the name suggests, these are designed for trimming and shaping hedges and shrubs into topiary perfection.

Whew, that covers some of the most popular power and manual tools. When selecting equipment, keep in mind your specific needs and property size. Battery-powered devices are gaining popularity for convenience, but gas models tend to be more heavy-duty. Pick what suits you best!

Reading User Manuals – Don’t Skip This Step!

I can’t emphasize enough how important it is to read the user manuals for your lawn care equipment. Instruction booklets can be painfully dull, but power tools are serious business. Taking the time to understand how your mower, trimmer, edger, or other gadgets function correctly and safely will save you considerable time down the road.

Here’s what a manual provides:

• Operating instructions – Covers every function of the tool to prevent misuse.
• Safety information – Outlines precautions like not turning off protective shields, which could lead to accidents.
• Maintenance guidance – Tells you when to sharpen blades, change oil, clean air filters, etc. This is key for optimal performance and longevity!

So don’t toss that manual into the recycling bin just yet. Spend quality time getting to know it, especially if you purchased new equipment. You’ll breeze through lawn care tasks confidently in no time.

Operating Equipment Safely

All right, you’ve got your tools and digested the instruction manuals. Now, let’s get into some critical actions for safely operating lawn care equipment:

Inspect the area

Before revving up any power tool, sweep your lawn for sticks, stones, toys, or other objects that could turn into dangerous projectiles. Removing debris ahead of time prevents injuries and damage.

Keep hands and feet away.

I know this sounds obvious, but it bears repeating. Never touch a mower’s spinning blades or the string of a running trimmer. Ouch! Also, resist the urge to reach under a mower deck to pluck grass clumps by hand. Use a stick instead if needed.

Focus on mowing

Don’t get distracted! Mowing requires your full attention. Hold off responding to texts or taking calls until the job is done. Losing focus for even a second around powerful equipment can lead to accidents.

Refuel carefully

Always add more gas or charge batteries before starting up gas-powered tools, never while they’re running. Spills and sparks are no good.

Don’t walk away.

Leaving a running mower or trimmer unattended is asking for trouble. If you must step away, shut off the power source first.

Mow forward

When using a walk-behind mower, mow back and forth in a forward direction. Avoid pulling the mower in reverse toward you as that puts you directly in the line of fire for thrown debris.

Store safely

After finishing lawn care for the day, keep all equipment locked securely in a garage or shed so kids and critters don’t poke around hazardous tools.

There are plenty more safety guidelines for operating specific tools like mowers, but this covers some key points. Above all, remember to take your time and don’t rush while using power equipment. Precision over speed keeps you safe.

Suiting Up in Protective Gear

Operating means metal machines that whirr, whizz, and whack demand wearing the proper protective equipment. Don’t head out to tame your turf without the following:

Eye protection

When mowing or edging, debris can go airborne quickly. Protect your peepers with safety glasses, goggles, or a face shield.

Gloves

Guard those hands from blisters, calluses, and pinched fingers with thick, sturdy gloves. Leather holds up best.

Long pants

Shield your legs from hurled debris, sparks, and brush burns by wearing heavy denim jeans or overalls, not shorts.

Sturdy shoes

Flip-flops won’t cut it! Wear tough leather or rubber boots or shoes that protect your feet and have thick soles for traction.

Ear protection

Prolonged exposure to loud engine noise can damage your hearing. Wear earplugs or protective earmuffs when using power tools.

Hat

A wide-brimmed hat keeps the sun’s rays off your face and neck. Stay cool out there!

Gearing up properly takes just a few minutes but makes a huge difference in keeping you injury-free. Don’t be tempted to cut corners for convenience. The extra safety precautions are well worth it.

Specific Tips for Lawn Mower Safety

Mowers deserve special attention when it comes to operating safely. Follow these guidelines when it’s mowing time:

Inspect first

Give the mower a quick once-over before each use, looking for any loose parts or damaged components. Ensure the blade is sharp and secure.

Understand the controls

Review the instruction manual periodically so that using the mower becomes second nature. Know how to power down in case of emergency quickly.

Adjust properly

Tweak the mower height, wheel positions, and handle alignment to operate it without bending, reaching, or straining in ways that lead to injury.

Clear the area

Do a walk-through first to remove debris that could get flung out by the blade. Take extra care on slopes and uneven ground.

Keep kids and pets away.

Make sure young children and pets are safely inside before you mow. Their small size makes it hard to see them amongst the grass. Tragic accidents can occur if they dart into the mower’s path.

Stick to a schedule.

Try to mow at the exact times weekly so family members learn when the lawn is off-limits for playtime. Early morning or dusk are ideal times with the most shade.

Staying vigilant about mower safety takes no time but pays enormous dividends by preventing terrible injuries. Help keep your family safe while nurturing your lawn.

The Importance of Regular Mower Maintenance

Here’s a quick tip to significantly improve your mowing experience: take good care of your mower! Regular tune-ups and blade sharpening help the mower operate efficiently so your lawn gets cut uniformly.

Letting maintenance slide leads to problems like:

• Dull blades that shred grass rather than cutting it cleanly. Jagged, brown tips are not the yard you want!
• Struggling engines that use more gas and are prone to breaking down.
• Debris buildup under the mower deck can lead to rust and reduced performance.

It’s not complicated, I promise. Just be diligent about:

• Sharpening the blade – invest in a blade sharpener and refresh that edge at least once a year. Ask your neighbor to teach you if you don’t know how!
• Checking the oil – periodically ensure the oil level in a gas mower is adequate. Top it off as needed.
• Cleaning the air filter – use a handheld air compressor to clear out accumulated dirt and debris now and then.

Don’t worry, I’ll remind you when it’s time again for mower maintenance! Just another way to keep your equipment – and you – safe and happy.

Keeping Children and Pets at a Safe Distance

As a protective parent, I put extra thought into keeping children and pets safely away from lawnmowers and other hazardous equipment. Kids don’t always realize the dangers power tools pose. Here are my top tips:

Store equipment in locked sheds or garages

Out of sight is out of reach! Securing your mower and trimmers in a locked space prevents access by both climbing kids and curious critters.

Share age guidance

Remind children under 12 to avoid going outside when mowers are in use. Their small stature makes it difficult for operators to see them amongst the grass.

Assist with scheduling

Coordinate schedules so young ones can play indoors while you mow the lawn. Consistency avoids surprises.

Check your perimeter

Walk the area first and remove any tempting toys or objects that could encourage kids or pets near active mowers.

Be present

Directly supervise older, mature kids if you allocate tasks like using a push mower under your watch. Don’t just send them out alone.

Keeping squirmy kiddos and energetic pets away from fun lawn tools can be challenging. But establishing some simple ground rules goes a long way in preventing heartbreaking accidents.

Mowing on Slopes and Rough Terrain

Mowing on hilly, bumpy ground demands extra care. Know the land you’re working on and heed these tips:

Survey the site

Before starting the mower, walk the entire area and look for holes, ditches, rocks, hidden obstructions, etc. Mark any hazards with small flags.

Use a walk-behind mower.

Riding mowers are happier on steep slopes. A walk-behind model with a broader wheelbase offers more stability.

Take it slowly

Don’t rush mowing on uneven terrain. The jostling increases your chance of twisting an ankle or losing control of the mower.

Wear boots with traction.

Sturdy, gripped footwear prevents slips and falls on irregular ground. Flip flops = no go.

Watch your footing

On slopes, beware of sliding downhill. Keep your center of gravity low when mowing vertically up and down.

Avoid extreme angles

When possible, mow across the face of slopes rather than directly up or down steep inclines. This provides better traction and control.

I know tackling the rough patches around your yard can be frustrating. But resist the urge to speed through it. Rushing causes accidents. Take your time and mow mindfully for the best results.

Using Lawn Care Chemicals Safely

Chemical products like fertilizers, weed killers, and pesticides promise rapid, picture-perfect lawns with minimal effort. But they must be used carefully to avoid harming your family, pets, or the environment. Follow these guidelines when using lawn chemicals:

Read the label

I can’t stress this enough – it’s crucial to thoroughly read and follow the label instructions for any lawn chemical. The label provides legally binding application directions to ensure the safe, proper use of that specific product.

Use personal protective equipment (PPE)

Cover up! Wear a long-sleeved shirt, pants, gloves, and protective eyewear when handling chemicals. This shields your skin and eyes.

Limit exposure

Mix chemicals outdoors or in a well-ventilated area to prevent inhaling fumes. Also, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after use.

Apply carefully

Spot treat weeds rather than blanketing everything for best results. Excess chemicals can run off into storm drains or leach into groundwater.

Explore non-toxic options

When possible, consider gentler alternatives like corn gluten herbicide, neem oil insecticide, or compost fertilization. Every bit helps the environment.

Lawn chemicals certainly offer convenience, but they do pose risks if misused. Educate yourself thoroughly on the proper handling and application before breaking out that bottle of weed killer. A little effort goes a long way in protecting what matters most – your family and surroundings.

Storing Chemicals Safely

Regarding lawn care chemicals, proper storage is critical for keeping these harsh compounds in check. Follow these tips to stash powerful products securely:

Original containers

Always leave chemicals in their original containers, complete with labels identifying contents. Never decant them into drink bottles or jars – tragic mistakes can occur.

Cool and dry

Find a storage area away from extreme heat and moisture to preserve chemical integrity. A garage shelf works nicely.

Locked up

Keep your chemical cache in a locked cabinet, closet, or garden shed to prevent access by children and pets. Use childproof latches if little ones are around.

Separated

Store fertilizers and pesticides far from food, animal feed, or pharmaceuticals. Cross-contamination is dangerous.

Limited inventory

Buy only the amount needed for one season. Oversupply leads to leftover waste requiring proper disposal.

Securing your lawn care potions is common sense safety. And please, please keep them far away from young hands! Limit access to only mature, educated adults in your home.

Deciphering Chemical Labels

Reading those pesky chemical labels from start to finish is so important. I know they contain tiny text and plenty of scientific jargon, but the health of your family and lawn depends on decoding them accurately. Here are the key bits to pay attention to:

Active ingredients

This lists what’s killing weeds, insects, etc. It also lets you know if the product contains any harsh chemicals you want to avoid.

Application rates

Follow the recommended amounts carefully! Applying too much can damage your plants and pollute groundwater. It would help if you had more to solve your problem.

Application method

Should the product be sprayed, spread, or watered in? Doing it incorrectly reduces effectiveness or causes drift onto desirable plants.

Safety gear

Take note of any protective equipment required when using the chemical, like gloves, goggles, or a face mask. It is better to overdress than risk exposure.

Storage guidelines

This specifies ideal storage conditions like temperature, location, and container requirements. Adhere closely to keep chemicals from degrading.

So don’t ignore those eye-straining manuals filled with minuscule text! Reading labels in detail prevents a lot of issues down the line. We owe it to ourselves and the planet to use chemicals judiciously.

Considering Greener, Safer Alternatives

While reviewing chemical labels, you may start doubting whether you want such harsh compounds around your family. Understandable! The good news is that green, organic options are becoming more and more effective for various lawn care tasks. Here are some to consider:

Compost fertilization

Replenish your lawn’s nutrients with rich, organic compost full of slow-release, gentle nutrition. It also improves moisture retention and soil structure.

Corn gluten herbicide

This all-natural corn byproduct inhibits weed seeds from germinating, reducing the need for synthetic herbicides over time. Completely non-toxic!

Neem oil insecticide

Extracted from the neem tree, this oil coats soft-bodied insects, preventing them from feeding and disrupting their reproductive cycle. But it’s harmless to you and me.

Natural weed control

Methods like sheet mulching or solarization kill weeds using simple cardboard and sunlight without resorting to chemicals.

Organic fungicides

Control lawn fungi with bio fungicides containing beneficial microbes that outcompete disease-causing pathogens.

See, you’ve got options! Start phasing in some of these safer approaches and notice your lawn thriving just as well but sustainably. Little steps make a big difference.

Safely Operating Electric Lawn Care Tools

Cordless, electric lawn tools provide quiet, emissions-free operation. But they still need to be handled with care to avoid mishaps. Here are some tips:

Use an outdoor-rated extension cord

Indoor cords quickly overheat outside. Choose an exterior-grade cable specifically designed for outdoor use and resistant to moisture.

Don’t modify the cord.

Avoid splicing together multiple extension cords or removing the grounding pin. This compromises safety features built into the cable.

Watch cord placement

Position cords safely along edges, away from water sources, and where they won’t get driven over and damaged by the mower.

Unplug when not in use.

Always disconnect tools from the power source when not in use. Accidental starting can lead to injury.

Store indoors

When done mowing for the day, store electric tools inside your home or garage where they are protected from moisture and unauthorized use.

Inspect for damage

Check cords and plugs periodically for cracked insulation, exposed wires, or malfunctioning ground pins. Damaged cables can deliver an electric shock.

Use a GFCI

For added protection, plug electric tools into a GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlet. This will automatically cut power if it detects a shock risk.

Treat electric-powered lawn gear with the same cautious respect as a gas mower. The electrical current these tools utilize can deliver a severe shock if mishandled. Take precautions and mow safely!

Exercising Caution Near Water

When yard work takes you near ponds, pools, or other backyard water features, additional care must be taken to avoid injury or equipment damage. Follow these tips when mowing or trimming around water:

Keep cords high and dry

Position extension cords well away from any water source. Moisture can travel along and into the cord, posing an electrocution hazard.

Use portable GFCI devices.

There are portable GFCI adapters that add ground fault protection when working further than an outlet’s reach. This prevents shocks.

Secure nearby hoses

Ensure hoses are rolled up and secured so they don’t become a tripping hazard. Tripping near water could lead to falls and electrocution.

Avoid slope edges

When mowing or trimming on a slope near water, stay well away from the slope’s edge. The angle increases the chances of slipping straight into the water.

Have rescue equipment ready

Keep a life preserver, rope, or shepherd’s hook nearby in case someone falls into a pond or pool so they can quickly be pulled to safety.

Lush landscapes call for water features, no doubt about it. But take precautions when caring for turf around standing water. A little planning prevents wet, dangerous surprises!

Lifting and Handling Equipment Safely

Lugging around lawn gear demands proper lifting form lest you throw out your back for good. Follow these lifting pointers:

Stand close

Get right next to whatever you’re lifting – this keeps the load close to your body, so you use your powerful leg muscles instead of your weaker back muscles.

Lift with legs

Bend those knees and lift with your legs! Squat down, grab the load, and straighten your legs to raise it. Avoid bending forward at the waist to lift.

Brace abdominals

Tighten your abdominal muscles as you lift for extra spine support. It makes a big difference!

Carry close

Hold loads against your body rather than away from it. The closer the load stays, the less strain on your muscles and joints.

Move smoothly

No quick jerking motions! Keep lifts and carries smooth and steady. Sudden twisting while handling heavy objects can pinch nerves.

Know your limits

Don’t go overboard trying to lift enormous amounts solo. Help move extremely heavy or awkward items like huge mowers or soil bags. Better safe than thrown out!

Remember, the last thing you need is an aching back, rendering you unable to enjoy your beautiful lawn! Make lifting smartly a habit from the start.

Preventing Strains When Using Yard Tools

Strains and sprains are all too familiar with repetitive lawn care motions. But you can cut your risks by:

Choosing ergonomic tools

Newer tools are designed for more comfortable, injury-free use. Look for curved handles, padded grips, and lightweight materials that reduce fatigue.

Switching hands frequently

Trade-off hands often when using tools like trimmers and pruners. This balances stress and strain on your muscles.

Walking instead of reaching

Rather than reaching out to prune a shrub, take steps closer to avoid overextending your arms, shoulders, and back.

Standing upright

Stooping, reclining, and kneeling put your body in weaker positions. Stand upright when raking, digging, or sweeping for better endurance and safety.

Staying hydrated

Drink plenty of water when working outdoors – dehydration intensifies strains and makes it harder for muscles to function smoothly.

Don’t just grin and bear recurring lawn care aches. Implementing better ergonomics can make a real difference in avoiding chronic issues.

The Value of Taking Regular Breaks

Speaking of recurring aches, taking frequent breaks is one of your best defenses against repetitive motion injuries that sneak up after years of yard work. Here’s why rest periods matter:

They relieve muscle fatigue

Worked muscles need periods of recovery to avoid overuse damage. Even brief 1-2 minute microbreaks make a difference.

They improve mental focus.

Ever notice how your mind wanders after an hour of intense mowing? Regular breaks reboot mental focus so you avoid sloppy mistakes.

They prevent rushing

When tired, it’s easy to rush through lawn tasks hastily. Short breaks encourage working at an intentional, safer pace. No need to hurry!

They reduce repetition

Taking hands and eyes off tasks relieves muscle groups from constant repetitive movements like raking or trimming.

They allow rehydration/snacking.

Breaks allow you to replenish fluids and energy with a healthy drink and snack. This sustains you through lengthy yard work.

I know it’s tempting to power through without stopping once you get in the lawn care “zone.” But fight the urge! Pace yourself intentionally and let those brief breaks rejuvenate you. Your future body will thank you.

Avoiding Unpleasant Wildlife Encounters

Caring for your lawn inevitably involves interacting with local wildlife, ranging from pesky bugs to slithering snakes. Here are smart tips for avoiding unpleasant critter encounters while gardening:

Wear protective clothing

Long pants, high socks, gloves, and thick shoes provide a barrier against bites, stings, thorns, and spines when working among shrubs and tall grasses.

Inspect thoroughly

Check shady, overgrown areas for signs of snakes, wasp nests, or poison ivy before clearing them. Use a stick instead of hands to part tall grass.

Apply insect repellent

Spray permethrin repellent on shoes, socks, and pants, or use DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus on exposed skin. This deters ticks, mosquitoes, and chiggers.

Avoid reaching blindly

When digging in the soil or moving items, be aware of what your hands touch to prevent encounters with spiders, scorpions, wasps, and snakes sheltering within. Use tools to sift.

Clear debris

Keep your yard free of piles of brush, boards, leaves, and junk that provide hiding spots for spiders, rodents, and snakes near your home.

Yard work inevitably brings you face-to-face with nature’s critters – both creepy and cute. Exercise reasonable caution when interacting with your wild neighbors.

Preventing and Treating Bug Bites

Even with vigilance, bug bites and bee stings can occur while doing yard work. Here’s how to protect yourself and treat any mishaps:

Wear light colors

Dark clothing attracts some insects. Stick to light-colored tops and pants to avoid standing out.

Stay covered

Long sleeves and pants keep skin exposure low, so there’s less surface area to bite. Tuck pants into socks when in tick habitat.

Limit fragrances

Perfumes, scented lotions, and hair products can draw bees and wasps. Avoid strong scents when outdoors.

Have medications ready

Stock antihistamines, hydrocortisone cream, Benadryl, EpiPens, and other meds to treat reactions ranging from mild itchiness to severe swelling or anaphylaxis.

Wash bites

Cleanse any bites with soap and water immediately to flush out antigens and avoid infection. Apply antibiotic ointment.

Take the sting out of insect bites carefully and prompt first aid. Stay prepared to keep edges from becoming swollen, infected messes!

Safely Handling Yard Tools and Equipment

Manual lawn care tools may not be motorized, but they require cautious handling to avoid cuts, punctures, or other mishaps. Follow these tips when using hand tools:

Inspect first

Always check yard tools for damage before each use. Dull blades or loose, splintered handles can lead to accidents. Perform repairs or replace damaged devices.

Direct blades away

When carrying tools like shovels, shears, and loppers, direct the sharp end away from you and others. Never run with sharp tools.

Cut away from yourself.

When pruners or saws are in use, position hands and body parts out of the line of cut to avoid accidental nicks and gashes.

Store safely

Hang sharp tools up high and out of reach when not in use, or lock them away from unsupervised kids. Dull the edges if kids will be using them.

Wear gloves

A sturdy pair of leather gloves protect hands from blisters, calluses, and injuries when gripping and using traditional garden tools.

Traditional hand tools can inflict some severe damage if misused. Show them the respect they deserve and work carefully.

Kids and Lawn Care: Safety Tips

As parents know, kids love getting in on lawn care activities alongside Mom and Dad. Supervise youngsters appropriately with these tips:

Teach respect for equipment

Remind children to stay a safe distance from mowers, trimmers, etc., when in use. Power tools are dangerous, not toys.

Guide appropriate tasks by age.

Little kids can plant bulbs or water gardens. Older kids can rake leaves, dig holes, or push a reel mower with supervision. Avoid motorized equipment until you are in your teens.

Mandate safety gear

Ensure kids wear sturdy shoes, gloves, long pants, and eye/ear protection when using age-appropriate tools. Set a good example yourself!

Define boundaries

Clearly communicate when lawn areas are off limits, such as when chemicals have been applied or powered equipment is operating.

Maintain constant watch

Actively supervise young children outdoors and check on older kids frequently. Don’t just send them out alone with tools.

Involving kids in yard work has many benefits, from skill-building to family bonding. Just be sure to establish prudent safety practices tailored to your child’s maturity level. Someday, they’ll be lawn care pros themselves!

Working in the Sun: Protection Tips

Caring for your lawn, trees, and gardens inevitably involves working under the hot sun. Follow these pointers to prevent sun-related issues:

Wear sunscreen

Apply broad-spectrum SPF 15+ sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside – and reapply every 2 hours! Don’t forget your lips, ears, and bald spots.

Don a wide-brimmed hat

A broad hat protects your scalp, face, ears, and neck from harsh UV rays. If you don’t have a big brim, wear a ball cap with a sun shield in the back.

Wear UV-blocking sunglasses

Sunglasses don’t just protect your eyes from brightness – they shield you from UV damage, too. Choose wraparound styles or ones specifically blocking UVA/UVB rays.

Cover up

When possible, wear tightly woven, loose long sleeves and pants that block UV penetration while keeping you more relaxed. Synthetic UPF clothing is ideal.

Take breaks

Rest in the shade periodically so your skin gets relief from constant sun exposure. Hydrate and cool down!

You want to enjoy your time tending that beautiful lawn – not sunburnt, dehydrated, and miserable. Implement these simple precautions to garden more comfortably under the sun!

Preventing Heat Exhaustion and Dehydration

Extensive time outdoors caring for your lawn and garden poses the risk of developing heat exhaustion or dehydration. Here is how to avoid these dangerous conditions:

Drink frequently

Don’t wait until you feel thirsty – drink ample water before, during, and after yard work. Shoot for 7-8 oz every 20 minutes or so.

Note urine color

Clear to pale yellow pee means you’re well hydrated. If it gets darker, increase water intake immediately.

Wear breathable clothing

Avoid dark, heavy fabrics that prevent sweat from evaporating to cool the body. Seek out lightweight, light-colored apparel instead.

Monitor overheating

Pay attention to early overheating symptoms like headache, nausea, and cramping. Stop all activity and find shade and water if these occur.

Schedule breaks

Take regular breaks in a cool, shaded area to give your body a chance to reset and recover. Don’t push yourself nonstop.

When working up a sweat in the yard, make self-care a priority. Keeping your body cooled and hydrated prevents situations like heat stroke that can have serious consequences.

Best Times of Day for Lawn Work

Timing your lawn and yard maintenance strategically helps minimize risks associated with sun exposure, heat, humidity, and other variables. Here are the ideal times:

Early morning

The air is more relaxed, the sun less intense, and the grass moist with dew in the early morning. For mowing, aim for about 7-10am.

Late afternoon/early evening

As the sun goes down, temps fall, but there is still enough light to see. Target 5-8 pm for yard work.

Overcast days

Cloud cover reduces sun intensity on cloudy days. As long as the rain isn’t pouring down, it’s a great time to be outside.

After irrigation,

Wait until the grass dries from any morning watering/dew before mowing, trimming, or using the equipment. Working on wet grass is slippery.

Post-peak sun

If working mid-day, take a break during the sun’s peak intensity from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Seek shade and resume tasks as light becomes less harsh.

Syncing your sweat sessions with ideal times keeps you more relaxed and safer. Pay attention to weather forecasts to know when to head out and get your garden on!

Wrapping Up Lawn Care Safety

Let’s recap some key lawn care safety takeaways:

• Always opt for the right protective gear, even if it seems overkill. Prevention is worth any inconvenience.
• Read and follow instructions for all chemicals and power equipment. Never take shortcuts with safety.
• Take breaks, drink water, and stop activity if you feel overheated or dehydrated. Don’t try to push through.
• Supervise children actively outdoors and teach/model proper use of age-appropriate tools.
• Respect equipment, take care with sharp implements, and prioritize maintenance for performance and safety.
• Know your limits, and don’t perform tasks beyond your comfort zone. Call in help when needed.

Caring for your lawn with some extra awareness provides peace of mind that you protect what matters most – your health and your family. Stay safe out there, friends. Let’s keep growing gorgeous lawns together using intelligent precautions. Enjoy the journey!