Post 764 Ambulance Service

Spring has sprung! By Tom Balistreri
EMT-B Peters Township, VFW Post 764 Ambulance Service

Every year it's the same thing, the winter weather blows through and beats up our yards. So once the weather starts to get a bit warmer, we head outside to survey the damage and get ready for the spring clean-up.

Each and every spring my yard is littered with broken branches. So off I go to pick up all those sticks that are now covering my landscape. Picking up sticks means a lot of bending over; good for the yard but bad for the back.

All this movement can put serious strain on your spine. So here are a few tips that might save your back from soreness and injury this season (that is if your yard is anything like mine).

"Bend with your knees"

Try not bending straight over, instead bend with your knees this will help reduce the amount of strain you put on your back.

Here's a rule of thumb, if it looks too big and heavy - it is. Cutting the fallen limbs down to a manageable size is a safer and easier way.

If there are trees that need attention in your landscape minor trimming is easy enough to do. Another rule of thumb ­ don't attempt to cut anything that is higher than you. In other words, if you have to reach over your head you should NOT be attempting to make that cut.

If the trees are large or damaged and need to be removed, best to leave this to professionals. In my time as an EMT I have seen more than enough injuries related to homeowners attempting to work on trees themselves. The professionals have the proper equipment and the experience; leave the big stuff to them.

"Leave the big stuff to Pros"

Speaking of proper equipment, remember to wear safety goggles, gloves, boots and any other appropriate safety equipment when using lawn tools. All it takes is one misstep or one small stone and you could be in serious trouble. Remember the last place I want to see you is in the back of my ambulance.

Make sure all of your tools are in proper working condition. Saws, mowers and other yard maintenance tools have been sitting all winter and should be oiled, greased, tuned up etc for the spring and summer.

Finally, if there are just too many sticks to pick up, recruit your kids or grandkids, at least that's what my father-in-law and I do. They are the perfect height and they have yet realize that it's work.

Until next time -- Tom