As the weather warms up, many of us start planning outdoor projects like trimming branches, cleaning gutters or adding a fresh coat of paint. Ladders are high-energy hazards, particularly due to gravity-related risks such as falls, tipping and structural failure, which can lead to severe injuries or even fatalities.

If a ladder is part of your to-do list, take a moment to review these safety basics before you climb.

• Inspect the ladder for loose bolts or cracked or broken rungs.
• Face the ladder when climbing up or down.
• Maintain three points of contact at all times: 2 feet + 1 hand or 2 hands + 1 foot
• Do not use the top step of the ladder.
• Never move, shift or extend a ladder while someone is on it.
• Don’t carry anything that could cause you to lose your balance.
• Carry ladders horizontally – parallel to the ground.

A quick safety check before you start can help ensure your spring projects stay productive and injury-free.