Free Ladder Guide from Dr. Jocko

Ladder Safety Checklist

Cleaning gutters? Your ladder angle matters.

As an ER physician and a dad of four boys, I know gutter season is here, and the ladder comes out in a lot of homes this time of year. According to NIOSH, in about 40% of ladder injury cases, the cause is the ladder sliding out at the base from an incorrect setup angle. This free checklist helps your family set up right and climb calmly.

• Set the angle: about 75 degrees. An incorrect setup angle can let the base slide out.
• Use the 4 to 1 rule. For every 4 feet of height, move the base 1 foot from the wall.
• Keep three points of contact. Keep both hands free for climbing. Carry tools in a tool belt or bag.
• Extend at least three feet above the edge. Your extension ladder should reach at least three feet above the roof or structure edge.
• After a fall, know when to call. Can't move, or neck or back pain, numbness or weakness? Call 911 and stay still.

Tap below to download the free checklist. No sign up needed.