FirstEnergy offers tips to stay safe on ladders, especially around electrical equipment

AKRON, Ohio, March 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Spring is the perfect time to tackle home improvement and maintenance projects such as painting or cleaning gutters. Before you start, take some time to brush up on ladder safety tips – especially when power lines and other electrical equipment are nearby.

In recognition of The American Ladder Institute's designation of March as National Ladder Safety Month, FirstEnergy (NYSE: FE) is promoting safe practices that decrease the number of ladder-related injuries and fatalities.

"We can't emphasize enough the importance of safe ladder use," said Candy Webb, Manager of Public Safety at FirstEnergy. "Most ladder accidents and serious injuries are preventable. The more you know, the safer you will be."

To protect yourself while using a ladder at home, follow these ladder safety tips:

Choose the Right Ladder

• Step ladders are ideal for indoor tasks, while extension ladders are better for outdoor projects like tree trimming, house painting and gutter work.
• Ensure the ladder is tall enough to reach your working area without overextending. For extension ladders, choose one that extends at least three feet above the roofline or working surface.

Know Where Power Lines Are Located

• Be mindful of overhead power lines and always stay at least 10 feet away from them when working outside.
• If electrical lines are anywhere near the tree or house where you are working, use a fiberglass ladder instead of an aluminum one. Aluminum ladders conduct electricity.

Inspect Your Ladder Before Use – Before climbing, check for damage, such as:

• Cracked or broken steps and rails
• Loose or missing screws and bolts
• Worn-out or slippery feet

If you notice any defects, do not use the ladder.

Climb and Work Safely

• Always climb facing the rungs and avoid twisting your body.
• Maintain three points of contact; either keep two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand on the ladder.
• If you can't reach your workspace, move the ladder instead of stretching.
• Keep your belt buckle between the side rails to maintain balance.
• Carry tools in a tool belt or hoist them up with a rope rather than holding them while climbing.

Transport and Store Ladders Properly

• If carrying a ladder, hold it parallel to the ground to avoid hitting objects or overhead wires. When transporting on a vehicle, secure it properly to prevent movement.
• Keep ladders in a dry, cool place to prevent rust and wear.

FirstEnergy is dedicated to integrity, safety, reliability and operational excellence. Its electric distribution companies form one of the nation's largest investor-owned electric systems, serving more than six million customers in Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, West Virginia, Maryland and New York. The company's transmission subsidiaries operate more than 24,000 miles of transmission lines that connect the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions. Follow FirstEnergy online at www.firstenergycorp.com and on X @FirstEnergyCorp.

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SOURCE FirstEnergy Corp.