Extension ladders – who has not used one to climb the ladder to get to the top of their house, hoping each time that it will not fall off, slip down, or simply buckle beneath your weight and tumble to the ground below? A tool as seemingly innocuous as a ladder can still be quite dangerous, and the sad fact is that the United States is leading the pack in ladder-related fatalities: In the last ten years alone we have lost three women in the United States and two people in Canada who fell or slipped from a ladder, making this the number one cause of death among those living in the U.S.
There are many reasons why someone might want to use a ladder: Whether you need it to reach the second floor window or to reach your attic, to climb on the ladder for whatever reason, the problem is usually one of safety. An extension ladder can be as simple as a simple two-step stair to help with reaching higher areas, or a ladder designed with handrails to provide additional safety to those who have trouble with their balance. If you need help climbing a ladder, it's important to make sure that the ladder is secure enough to safely use. While most extension ladders can be easily secured, you should also make sure that it's being placed in a place where there is no place for your hands to become trapped.
When using extension ladders, it is important to know what type you are buying, since some ladders come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. If the ladder is designed with handrails, you should take extra care to ensure that they are attached properly. If you are using extension ladders to reach the top of your home or attic, you may be concerned about whether the ladder is stable enough to get up and down.
Extension Ladders are not meant to be used for everyday activities such as climbing the stairs. They should only be used when the stairs are inaccessible. If you use extension ladders frequently, and especially if you frequently work with them on a regular basis, you may have a tendency to pull or tug at the ladders when you are using them. If your extension ladder comes loose, you should immediately remove it and call for assistance.
It's also important to remember that not all extensions are created equal. The design of the ladder is what determines its stability, and safety features, so a poorly designed ladder can be unstable and potentially deadly. If the ladder is poorly manufactured, the extension springs can loosen, causing a person to fall off, which can cause injury or death. If you have a high quality ladder, check to make sure that the extensions fit correctly, that the screws are tight, and that no sharp edges are exposed.
To be safe when using extension ladders, it's best to buy a ladder that is manufactured by a manufacturer that you trust and has a good reputation for safety. It's important to remember to also read the manual carefully, especially if the ladder has an enclosed ladder base, as the enclosed parts can become slippery if the ladder falls. Make sure that the ladder is mounted properly to avoid any unsightly falls.
