Before you head out to garden or do yard work, gear up to protect yourself from lawn and garden pests, harmful chemicals, sharp or motorized equipment, insects, and the effects of too much sun.

  • Wear safety goggles, sturdy shoes and long pants when using lawn mowers and other machinery.
  • Protect your hearing when using machinery. If you have to raise your voice to talk to someone who is an arm’s length away, the noise can be potentially harmful to your hearing.
  • Wear gloves to lower the risk of skin irritations, cuts and certain contaminants.
  • Protect yourself from diseases caused by mosquitoes and ticks. Use insect repellent containing DEET. Wear long-sleeved shirts, and pants tucked in your socks. You may also want to wear high rubber boots since ticks are usually located close to the ground.
  • Lower your risk for sunburn and skin cancer. Wear long sleeves, a wide-brimmed hat, sun shades, and sunscreen with sun protective factor (SPF) of 15 or higher.

— Source: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

 

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