With the warmer weather having people itching to get out and do some yard work, there are some safety tips to keep in mind. 

Perry Fire Chief Chris Hinds says each year people are injured using regular everyday outdoor equipment, much like what is used for spring yard work. Also, Hinds says people need to be aware of their surroundings.

“Each year more than 400,000 people are injured across the United States with mishaps of ladders, and electrical power tools, hand tools, (and) lawnmowers. So, I encourage everyone to take care in using their power tools, their ladders, their lawn mowers, those kinds of things as they get them out after winter.”

Hinds tells Raccoon Valley Radio it’s also important for people to make sure they are following the directions and safety labels that are on their equipment. 

“They are there for a reason and we need to follow those that way we can enjoy a long, safe spring and summer and be much safer while we are out there doing those kinds of things.”

Hinds offers other safety tips like using ladders that are long enough and centering yourself on the ladder, and not carrying equipment up the ladder.