Logo
November 3, 2023

Ladder Safety – 5 Basic Rules

As we move into the holiday season, it’s important to prioritize ladder safety. Whether you’re climbing on the roof to hang twinkling lights or climbing to the crawl space to retrieve the good dishes, it’s important to be mindful of staying safe and secure.

Small child playing on a ladder

Stay S.M.A.R.T. with Ladder Safety

There are five basic rules for ladder safety and here is a mnemonic to help you remember them.


When using a ladder, you’re going to stay SMART.


S – Safety & Stability

Inspect the ladder to make sure all screws, bolts, and hinges are in good, working order. Look for damaged rungs, rust damage, or other structural damage. Always survey the area for powerlines, electric lines, uneven terrain, or other obstructions.


M – Maintain Contact

Always maintain three (3) points of contact when ascending or descending a ladder. This means keeping 2 hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand, in contact with the ladder at all times. This also means that only small items can be safely carried up a ladder alone, and for heavier, bulkier items you should always enlist someone else’s assistance.


A – Avoid Turning or Reaching.

 Ascend and descend using the middle of the foot rungs and maintaining contact with the handrails, staying centered and balanced at all times. Always face the ladder when climbing up and climbing down. Never turn around, lean over, or overreach the ladder or you may lose your balance.


R – Use the RIGHT ladder for the job.

Be mindful of weight limits, which range from 200 pounds of working load (light duty) to 375 pounds of working load (special duty) and beyond. As for how tall the ladder should be, follow the 4:1 rule. For every 4 meters of climb, you’ll set the base of the ladder to be 1 meter from the structure. A 4-meter ladder is not tall enough for a 4-meter climb.


T – Take Your Time

It’s easy to take ladder safety for granted, and injuries are easy to sustain. Falling from a ladder can be life-threatening, especially if you are on your own or falling from a great height. No matter how experienced you are with climbing, or how comfortable with heights, always take your time and prioritize ladder safety.


Stay SMART this holiday season – Follow these 5 Basic Rules to ensure your ladder success! 

Front of house lighted with holiday lights
Man on a ladder painting wall

You may be interested in:

A magnifying glass , pen , and a model house are on a wooden table representing a chart.

REALTORS® Confidence Index

March 28, 2025
The Market Outlook from the REALTORS® Confidence Index for sellers increased compared to last month.
A homeowners association document is sitting on a wooden table next to a pen and a book.

Homeowners Associations

March 28, 2025
In many housing markets, homeowners associations (HOAs) and other community associations can be a part of the homebuying (and owning) experience. Here’s what prospective buyers should know:
A woman is kneeling down in front of a house holding a sign that says home for sale.

Marketing Your Home

March 28, 2025
Once you decide to sell your home, your agent will work with you to determine the best strategy to reach potential buyers and attract strong offers. Here are some considerations when marketing your home:
A wooden house with the words property tax written on it

Property Taxes

March 28, 2025
Wherever you buy a home in the United States, property taxes are a reality of homeownership. An agent who is a REALTOR® can help connect you with a tax expert in your area, but here are the basics:
A man is holding a sold sign in front of a house.

Navigating Multiple Offers

March 28, 2025
When your home is on the market, you may receive offers from multiple interested buyers. Offers can vary greatly, and you will need to determine which one is best for you. Here's what sellers should know:
A cardboard box with the words moving day written on it

Innovative Strategies for a Seamless Spring Move: 5 Secrets for Moving Success

April 1, 2024
As spring approaches, many homeowners gearing up to sell their homes face the daunting task of moving. However, with some innovative strategies and the right supplies, you can make the process smoother and more efficient. Here are five tips tailored specifically for home sellers embarking on a spring move:
A magnifying glass is sitting on top of a table next to two small houses.

How Much is My Home Worth in Today’s Market?

April 1, 2024
As spring approaches and the real estate market begins to bloom, homeowners gearing up to sell their homes are undoubtedly eager to secure the best offer possible. The key to achieving this lies in understanding how real estate agents value properties and determine listing prices. Here's a glimpse into the process:
A family stands in front of a house for sale sign

Facts about Closing Costs that Homebuyers Need to Know

April 1, 2024
Before making the decision to buy a home, it’s important to plan for all the costs you’ll be responsible for. While you’re saving for the down payment for your new home, don’t forget you’ll need to prepare for closing costs too.
a boy is sitting on a man 's shoulders looking at a house.

Maximizing Curb Appeal: Your Ultimate Guide to Selling Your Home in the Spring Market

March 19, 2024
As the spring market approaches, prospective home sellers are gearing up to showcase their properties in the best possible light. One of the most crucial aspects of attracting potential buyers is curb appeal – the first impression your home makes from the street. Here's your comprehensive guide to preparing your home for the spring market and maximizing its curb appeal:
Show More
Share by: