b'pictures: Lucent*MediaWe have traditionally been a nation of do-it-yourselfers.Keepyourweightevenlydistributed.ClimbintheWe tend not to use a tradesperson if we think we cancentre of the ladder, hold the side rails with both tackle a job on our own. However, if youre not goodhands and keep your belt buckle within the sides of with heights and youre not condent about climbing upthe ladder.a ladder, let alone setting up and then venturing up anNever leave a raised ladder unattended.extension ladderthen DONT. Extension laddersIfyoucantaffordtopaysomeonetoclimbupthe Extend an extension ladder at least a metre beyond ladder and do the job for you, then think laterally about exchanging your own services or skills to get the job done.the top surface the ladder is resting on.An offer of an evenings babysitting or a casserole as a Dont place the ladder at too extreme an anglethree swap with a friend or neighbour for clearing the leavesup, one out is safe.from a second-storey guttering? Why not? DONT So, remember: Dont use a damaged ladder. Its not worth the risk. Dont be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Get Dont over-extend your reach.someone to hold the ladder in position while you climb. Dont climb onto the top step of a ladder. f youre using a new ladder, read the manufacturers IDont use a step ladder as an extension ladder.instructions rst.Inspect the ladder: Dont use a ladder in high winds or in an electricalCheck for any loose screws.storm.Check that the ladder rungs are dry before stepping Dont use a ladder as a seat between your choresitson them.not designed to carry your weight for long periods.Ensure your metal ladder has slip-resistant feet. If you fall off a ladderUse the right ladder for the job. Plenty of accidents are Dont panic. Evaluate the situation as calmly as you can caused by someone using a ladder thats too short. and decide if youre hurt. If you dont think that youve Place the ladder on rm, level ground and ensure thatbroken any bones, get up slowly. Even if you are mobile, ifthe safety locks are engaged, so the ladder doesntyou have hit your head, go and get yourself checked out slide out of position. as soon as possible. If you believe an injury has occurred that stops you from standing or walking, shout for help. Keep the area around the bottom of the ladder free If you have a cellphone handy call 111 in New Zealand of clutter. or 000 in Australia, or contact a friend or neighbour for Ensure that the ladder is well clear of power lines andassistance. In fact, always keep your cellphone handy ifelectrical equipment. you are using a ladder when there is no one else around. To nd out more about using your ladder safely, visit: Wear slip-resistant shoes.www.consumeraffairs.govt.nz/productsafety/ ReseneBleach WhiteThere should only be one person on a ladder at a time.consumerinfo/laddersafety.html Reseneor email: ladders@nacl.co.nz. Hot AugustFace the ladder when climbing up or down.| 107'