Since all of us will be on our roofs this summer patching that leak that has cost us a fortune in emergency calls. Here are eight basic safety rules to follow when using a ladder.
Do not over lap the extension of a 2-piece ladder less than 3 rungs.
Set the ladder on even, firm footing.
Extend at least 3 rungs up over the eaves of the roof. You want to step from the ladder onto the roof. Do not climb over the eaves and guttering onto the roof. The extension hooks must be hooked. Double Check.
Watch out for overhead power/phone lines.
Climb the ladder one rung at a time.
On the ground, the ladder should slope about one-fourth its length from the side of the house. Example: If the ladder is 16 feet long, it should be pulled out at the bottom 4 feet from the side of the house.
Check the rungs for safety by walking on the rungs with the ladder flat on the ground.
If the ladder even appears damaged, do not climb it under any circumstances.
