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Crofton, MD 21114

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By Crofton Podiatry
June 07, 2017
Category: Feet Safety

The warm weather means more than fun in the sun. It also means caring for your lawn and fixing up your landscaping around your house. For those that maintain their lawns on their own, it’s important to be aware of the risks that come with using motorized landscaping tools like power mowers with rotary blades.  Thousands of Americans suffer power mower injuries each year, with hand and foot injuries topping the list of injury sites. Children younger than the age of 14 and older adults seem to be more likely to get injured.

At Crofton Podiatry, we put the safety of our patients first. The following are guidelines you can follow to prevent injuries while using a power mower:

  • Safety gear: Wear goggles, hearing protection, long pants and closed-toe shoes with gripped outer soles. Use protective gloves when putting your hand near the blades (Try to use a stick or something else instead of your hands if possible) to fix something or replace blades.
  • Weather: Only mow lawns in good weather. A wet lawn can put you at risk of slipping and injuring your foot.
  • Children: Keep children and pets away from the lawn while mowing or using other landscaping tools. They may run up to the machines without you realizing it. Do not allow them to ride on the lawn mower, and do not allow them to even sit on an adults lap while on a lawn tractor as they can get injured while getting on or off.
  • Clear the Lawn: Before you start mowing, clear the lawn of toys, branches, and other debris so that they do not become projectiles when caught in the rotary blades. Children should be at least 12 years old before using a lawn mower, and at least 16 years old for a riding mower.
  • Power landscaping tools: Buy ones that have auto shut-off when your hands release the handle. You also need to get one that is appropriate to your landscape – steep hills are a no-no for riding mowers.
  • While mowing: Always keep the clip bag attached. Mow across and not up and down hills. Also, never mow backwards unless you don’t have any alternative as it is high risk for injury if someone is behind you.
  • Tool maintenance: The power tools should be stored away from high traffic areas and out of reach of children. Only adults should adjust blade settings. Power mowers can get very hot and cause an explosion or fire. Refueling when hot can lead to burns. Never service the mower while it’s running (including unclogging or unjamming the blades) – shut it off and let it cool down first.

Injuries from power landscaping tools should be treated promptly! Go to the emergency department for severe injuries. For strains or sprains from using mowers, come see our board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Brad Toll at Crofton Podiatry. Make an appointment by calling (410) 721-4505. Our team is ready to assist you at our Crofton, MD office, which also serves the surrounding Gambrills, Odenton, and Bowie areas.

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By Brad Toll
July 05, 2014
Category: Feet Safety

2014’s 4th of July weekend celebrations are upon us – and it is time to celebrate!  In honor of celebrating our 238th birthday as a free nation, millions of Americans will be joining in on the whirlwind of parades, beaches, boating, fireworks displays and backyard grilling.  However, the easiest way to ruin the festive fun is through a surprise trip to the emergency room. If swimming, boating, or many other outdoor activities are part of your 4th plans, consider the following suggestions to stay safe and out of the doctor’s office this holiday season.

When fireworks or grilling are part of your plans make sure everyone is wearing full coverage shoes at all times. All too often, the enjoyment of the outdoors tempts our companions into going barefoot, a dangerous proposition when hot coals or embers may be unknowingly scattered across the ground.  Additionally, to prevent blisters, cuts or calluses, proper shoe wear is even more important during the holidays, when sharp objects such as bottle caps, broken glass, or metal trash may be lurking under every step. If sandals are a must for you – consider switching to sandals like Keens or other brands which have protective toe-guards.

Additionally – while your feet are important, so is the rest of your body too!  Hopefully with a few simple ‘steps’ to stay safe, we can ensure that everyone’s 4th of July around Crofton, Gambrills, and Annapolis Maryland is enjoyable and memorable.

  • To prevent heat exhaustion and dehydration, bring and drink plenty of water.  Oftentimes – much more than you would expect to need.
  • Every part of the body is at risk for sunburn.  Bring plenty sunscreen, apply it liberally and frequently, and make sure to spend time in the shade when possible.
  • Make sure to supervise all children, and be sure that everyone has adequate flotation devices when near the water.  Don’t rely on water wins or inflatable toys!
  • Make sure all food is well-cooked and not spoiled by the summer heat.

Remember – the worst way to celebrate the 4th is in the emergency department. Be safe, think critically before every activity, and most importantly…enjoy!

Dr. Brad Toll and the staff at Crofton Podiatry wishes everyone reading this a happy 4th July Celebration!

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2411 Crofton Lane, Suite 25
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Podiatrist - Crofton, Crofton Podiatry, 2411 Crofton Lane, Suite 25, Crofton MD, 21114 (410) 721-4505