Millions of dollars are spent annually by corporations to promote safe and efficient work environments, but what happens when you leave the workplace? Home-related accidents often result in injuries to the back and neck and sprain/strain injuries to shoulders and knees. These injuries are often preventable with the help of some simple rules.

According to Linda Dillinger, Director of Admissions at ManorCare Green Tree, most injuries occur as a result of a lack of planning. “Short-cuts to get the job done faster can often result in an otherwise preventable injury.” Linda has identified several household related chores that can lead to injury over time. Lifting large baskets of laundry, taking out the garbage and routine child-care tasks all place you in dangerous positions where you are susceptible to injury. Objects that are stored low and “out of the way,” or heavy objects stored overhead can also lead to potential disaster.

Linda offers some tips to prevent injuries at home:

• When in doubt, stick your butt out.” This instills proper alignment of the spine from a variety of lifting positions and enforces a safe and efficient lifting posture.
• "The best way to lift and object is to have someone else lift it for you!" You can also offer your kind assistance in a safe 2-person lift for heavy and awkward objects.
• Take caution while storing items. Avoid storing heavy objects in low, out-of-reach and in overhead areas to avoid risk while retrieving it.
• Maintain clear and uncluttered pathways in main traffic areas and entrances to your home.
• Take your time and avoid rushing to complete your task. Most injuries are a result of a hurried attitude and sacrifice your body for the sake of time.

Poor nutrition, muscle weakness and poor postures also contribute to potential risk of injury. Repetitively straining soft tissue structures while lifting improperly weakens the structures and makes you susceptible to injury by only sneezing or coughing.

Injury prevention in the home is a process, not just an isolated event. Just as weight loss or fitness programs are not one-time events, having a safe home needs continuous attention to ensure its success. The great news is that taking steps to improve the safety in your home is much easier than instating a weight loss program.