Summer is the perfect time and weather to get your yard and outdoor spaces tip-top shape. But before you head outside, we want to remind you that simple precautions can ensure your work is disaster-free.

Here are our top 10-yard work safety tips to help you and your family avoid a trip to the emergency room.

1- Know your equipment. Before operating a new lawn mower,r read the owner’s manual and all the safety information—Ditto for your weed trimmer. Check with your tools’ manufacturer to ensure there haven’t been any safety recalls.

2- Practice Ladder Safety. You’ve heard it repeatedly, but always check to ensure your ladder is firmly set on a level surface. Never place ladders on boxes or other objects to make the ladder reach higher areas. Lock or barricade any doors that may open toward ladders. Also, never stand on the top rung or step of a ladder – your balance could be jeopardized.

3- Watch your children. Every year, thousands of children nationwide are injured by lawn care tools. That’s why we recommend keeping small children inside while you’re mowing or trimming. At a minimum, do not allow children younger than 12 to operate a push lawn mower and anyone under 16 to operate a driving lawn mower. Do not take children on rides with a riding mower.

4- Check your extension cords. Before use, check your extension cords for cracks and seal them with electrical tape. If you find any frayed wires, replace the cord. And remember, never run extension cords through puddles.

5- Protect your body. This one is simple: wear protective gear. We all know that lawnmowers hit rocks, sticks, and other items that can be turned into flying projectiles. Wear long pants to protect your legs from flying objects, and wear non-slip, closed-toe shoes instead of sandals. Don’t forget your eyes and ears! Sunglasses protect you from the sun, and earplugs can eliminate loud noises from machinery that could cause a substantial amount of hearing loss.

6- Store tools and materials in safe places. A range of injuries can be caused by stepping on, landing, or being hit with garden tools like shovels, rakes, and trowels. Do not use these tools when near children. When not in use, store them in safe, enclosed areas. If you have small children or pets, weed killer or lawn fertilizer can be deadly. Seal bags and storethem  at heights where small children cannot getintoo potentially harmful materials.

7- Don’t dig without approval. Check with your local utility companies before you dig trenches, holes, or any other cavity in your yard. You do not want to be responsible for accidentally hitting gas, electrical, or sewer lines – the results of which can be extremely hazardous, not to mention expensive.

8- Be conscious of electricity. Don’t leave electrical tools plugged in while not in use. When ready to use a tool, ensure the equipment is in the off position before you plug it in. As is evident, always turn equipment off and unplug it from an outlet before you attempt to fix the machinery.

9- Get green smart. Before you or your children do any “hands on” weed removal, be sure you know how to identify poison ivy, sumac, oak and similar toxic plants. Find out ahead of time how to treat the rashes they cause to reduce the irritation.

10- Be Smart. It’s obvious. Never operate lawn machinery or use heavy garden tools while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.