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Shutters:
Most newer homes have impact glass these days but if you are using shutters these can be cumbersome and cause injury while putting on your windows. Always have someone to help you carry and place the shutter. If you are on a ladder, the shutter can be awkward to assemble without someone on the ground helping stabilize the shutter and get in place so you don’t have to twist your body to get the shutter in position. Most of us store our shutters in the garage or storage shed so moving them from the garage or shed to the designated window is a repetitive process of bending, lifting and twisting. Use your legs, use a buddy and make more trips to minimize heavy lifting. Use gloves to protect your hands and a cordless drill or screwdriver to limit stress on your hands and wrists when tightening screws. If you are using plywood, these are sold in large sizes and are quite heavy and awkward to screw into place. Please use the same techniques as previously mentioned to minimize injury.
Water:
Buying packaged water is one that causes frequent injuries to the lower back from heavy lifting and twisting. Try to buy water in smaller packages which are lighter to lift and easier to move around and store in your house or garage. If you have a smaller package in each hand, the weight will be balanced better evening out the weight distribution and minimizing awkwardness when lifting and storing. Be aware of the heat in your storage areas as the heat can break down the plastic components in the bottle which can negatively affect our health so if you have the room, store water in your home or area that’s got A/C.
Yard:
Trimming hedges, trees, flora and fauna in your yard also puts a heavy stress load on your lower back, legs, arms and shoulders. Do this in stages so your body isn’t overwhelmed with the aforementioned as well as yard preparation. Again, if you are using a ladder and chainsaw, use a buddy to help stabilize the ladder, branches and roots to minimize injury and keep you in a safe and stable position. A faulty or dysfunctional chain can be fatal so please take necessary precautions before use. Cut large branches and roots into manageable pieces so they are easier to move. Use a wheelbarrow or tarp to move bricks, stones and other heavier items. Wear safety glasses to minimize eye injuries from flying debris. When moving patio and lawn furniture utilize proper bending and lifting techniques with your legs and upper body, do not twist and again use a buddy and make more trips to your storage area to minimize the chance of injury.