ClothingMaintaining Your BodyToolsPlants and AnimalsPreventing/Treating Injuries

Match clothing to weather and temperatureProper shoes or boots to protect feet and support anklesGloves, hats, kneeling padsKnee braces or elbow supports to ease strain on jointsEar plugs when using noisy machinerySafety goggles when appropriate

Drink plenty of waterTake breaks and change positionsWear sunscreenMaintain good posture; use proper lifting technique (use legs, not back)

New, ergonomic tools are designed to reduce muscle fatigue and injuryUse wheelbarrows or carts for heavy loadsKeep tools well maintained (sharpened, oiled)Use tools safely; particularly important for machinery such as chainsaws, lawnmowers, weed whackers. Also ladders

Poisonous plants Poison ivy and stinging nettleMany plants are toxic to both humans and pets if eaten

Thorny plants; use gloves when handling

Stinging insects Bees and wasps not near hives/nests are generally non-aggressive (Are you allergic to stings?)Some caterpillars have stinging hairs

Unlikely, but be aware of rabies possibility in mammals

Stretch and strengthen to prevent muscle soreness (see handout for diagrams) or http://fairfaxmastergardeners.org/knwldgb/Gardening%20Articles/Oh_My_Raking_Back_and_Mulching_Muscles.pdf

Keep tetanus shots up-to-dateInjuries

Ice reduces swelling; heat improves circulationKnow when to see a doctor – most muscle soreness can be treated at home; joint pain or swelling can be symptoms of more serious injuries