Now that we’re firmly in the holiday season, Christmas lights are going up, and other holiday decorations are popping up around your Mobile, Alabama, neighborhood. With that in mind, you may find yourself needing to climb up onto your roof to secure lights or other holiday decorations. In order to make sure that your holidays are a safe and happy time for you and your family, be sure to keep these five tips in mind if being on the roof is part of your plans.
1. Dress Smart
One of the most important aspects of roofing safety is what you wear when you’re up there. Obviously, wearing the right shoes is crucial, as you’ll need to be able to grip the surface of your roof. Close-toed shoes that have a good tread on them should always be worn when you’re on a roof.
Additionally, you’ll want to be sure to wear clothes that you can move in freely. While you don’t want to wear baggy clothes that may cause you to trip or get tangled, you should wear clothes that are loose enough for necessary motions.
2. Watch Where You Walk
Having on the right type of shoes is only half the battle. It’s important that you pay careful attention to where you walk when you’re on the roof of your home. Make sure that you avoid any areas where leaves may have fallen, water is puddled, or debris can be seen. Also, if you notice any areas of your roof that may need repair, avoid them completely.
3. Use Safety Ropes
Another great way to keep yourself safe while you’re on the roof is to utilize safety ropes and harnesses. Even if your roof isn’t incredibly high off the ground, a fall from the top could have disastrous consequences. Make sure that you’re harnessed in, so your holiday decorations aren’t the only thing secure while you’re on the roof.
4. Securing Your Ladder
Even if you’re not going to be working from a ladder, you’ll need to use one while you’re climbing onto and down from the roof. Make sure that your ladder is on a flat, solid surface to avoid any movement while you’re on it. If you want to take an extra step in ladder safety, weigh down the bottom of the ladder with sandbags or weights.
5. Organize as You Go
When putting up holiday decorations, you’ll probably have tools, extension cords, and other materials on the roof with you. Make sure that you clean up your workspace as you go to avoid creating any hazards that could make you stumble while you’re on the roof.
Putting up holiday decorations is a way to bring the joy of the holiday season to your home. However, it’s important that you do so safely. If you notice any areas on your home’s roof that need repair, contact Guy Brothers Roofing & Siding to find out how we can serve you.
