Mar

5 Tips for Spring Cleaning Safety

March 20th, 2015

Flowers with words "Happy Spring!"

It’s the first day of spring – but for much of the country, it doesn’t feel like it. So while we might have to wait a week or two for nice enough weather to open the windows and walk around without jackets, we can still get started on another spring tradition: spring cleaning! Here is some advice on spring cleaning safety to help you minimize safety risks while you get your home ready for spring.

Be careful what you throw away

You’ll likely be throwing away old documents taking up space in your home. Just be sure to shred anything with sensitive information on it, such as your social security number, name, address and income.

(Also read: Your Trash, Thieves' Treasure)
Don't take risks on ladders and stepping stools

You’ve heard it a million times: Use caution when you’re on a ladder. The same goes for step stools. Always move the item you’re standing on instead of leaning too far to one side or the other. Never use a ladder by yourself – always have someone holding the base steady.
Breathe easy

Hard-to-clean areas like bathrooms and kitchens often require serious chemicals. Ventilate the area by opening the windows (yes, even if it’s still cold out). Watch for symptoms like skin irritation, difficulty breathing, vision loss, low blood pressure and lowered heart rate. If you feel any of these symptoms, call the Poison Control Center immediately (1-800-222-1222). Always keep these chemicals out of reach of children.
Empty your water buckets

Don’t leave buckets filled with water and/or any cleaning liquids out while you take a break or move on to your next project. Full buckets are drowning hazards for children, and slipping hazards for you in case the wind, a falling object or a pet tips the container over.
Lock your doors

Many of us listen to loud music or television programs for entertainment as we deep clean. Make sure you lock your doors and set any home alarms to reduce your risk of burglary when you can’t hear over the TV, radio or vacuum.