Back and limb injuries from lifting or falling and allergic reactions to dust and cleansers are just a few of the factors that can make cleaning house a dangerous business. Linda Patterson, extension health specialist at Mississippi State University, said a few precautions can help avoid hazards in homes and yards. Most falls can be prevented if a few simple precautions are taken. To help avoid falls, don't walk down stairs with heavy loads, keep stair handrails in good shape, make sure stair rugs are firmly in place, keep stairwells free of clutter and make sure they are well-lit. Don't stretch electrical cords across pathways and clean up spills immediately to avoid slipping or tripping, Patterson said.
Ladders are another source of injuries around homes, but they can be used safely.
Don't use makeshift ladders such as tables, chairs or stacked boxes. Cleaning out closets and storage rooms often involves a lot of lifting, one of the most common causes of back injury. If you do lift and carry heavy objects, be sure to do it correctly. To pick up a heavy object, bend your knees and squat as close to the load as possible, with your feet about a shoulder's width apart. Get a good grip, tighten your stomach muscles and lift the load using your thigh muscles, while keeping your back straight.