• Inspect ladders before use. Make sure that the rungs are intact and free of dirt and paint buildup that could interfere with footing.
  
  
• When extending or retracting an extension ladder, hold the pulley rope firmly; if the rope is released, the upper section could drop on your fingers, arms or feet.
  
  
• Follow the "four contact" rule: When using an extension ladder, make sure that the tops of both rails make solid contact with walls, and that both legs make solid contact with the floor or ground.
  
  
• Never stand higher than the third-highest rung on a ladder. Make sure that the ladder reaches at least three feet higher than the highest level you need to stand.
  
  
• Place foam protectors or wads of cloth on the tops of extension ladders, to prevent them from sliding and to protect the walls.
  
  
• On a stepladder, make sure the spreader bar is fully extended and locked in place.
  
  
• With a straight or extension ladder, make sure that the base is one foot away from the wall for every three feet of height.
  
  
• Make sure your pockets are empty of knives, scissors or other pointed tools before climbing any ladder.
  
  
• When on the ladder, keep your hips between the rails for good balance.
  
  
• Do not push or pull too hard on a scraper or other tool while balanced on the ladder.
  
  
• Always wear rubber-soled or another type of non-slip shoe on a ladder.
  

Special Guidelines for Outdoor Ladder Use:

• Avoid working in wet or windy weather, and do not climb a wet ladder.
  
• Keep all ladders away from power lines -- especially metal ladders.
  
• Make sure that the ground under the ladder is secure -- place plywood under the legs to ensure solid footing.
  
• A ladder can be additionally secured by tying it to a sturdy portion of the house or to a large eyebolt in the wall or fascia board.
  
  
  
  

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