8 Tips to Stay Safer When Doing Yardwork

Here are some simple ways to avoid pain or injury when working in your yard.

Yardwork may seem like a harmless activity, but it can be tough on your body and may put you at risk for pain or injury. Whether you're mowing the lawn, trimming hedges, pulling weeds or lifting heavy bags of soil, there are numerous ways that you can get hurt, from strained or sore muscles to cuts, bruises, sunburns and serious injuries.

Here are 8 simple tips to help you stay safer and feel better while getting things done around the yard:

1. Warm up first. Before you jump into your yardwork, take a few minutes to stretch or walk around. Just like any other physical activity, yardwork uses muscles and can strain your back, shoulders and knees. A short warm-up gets your body ready and can help prevent injury.
2. Wear the right gear. Always wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good grip when doing yardwork. Gloves can protect your hands from cuts and blisters. Use headphones to dampen the sound when using loud tools like a leaf blower or mower. And don’t forget safety glasses if there's any chance something could fly into your eyes, whether or not you’re using power tools.
3. Watch your posture. Bending and twisting the wrong way is one of the top causes of yardwork injuries. Try to keep your back straight and bend at your knees when picking something up. If you’re using tools, hold them close to your body and switch hands often so one side doesn’t get overworked.
4. Stay hydrated. Even if it’s not hot outside, you can still get dehydrated when you’re being physically active. Keep a water bottle nearby and take sips often, especially if you're working for more than 30 minutes. Dehydration can sneak up on you and cause dizziness or fatigue.
5. Use tools safely. Read instructions on tools before using them, especially power tools. Never yank cords or reach into a mower or trimmer while it's plugged in or turned on. Make sure your tools are in good shape and store them in a safe place when you're done.
6. Take breaks. Pacing yourself is key. If you start feeling tired, dizzy or sore, take a break. Don’t try to do all your yardwork in one day. Your body needs time to rest, especially if you're doing something you haven’t done in a while.
7. Protect yourself from the sun. Wear sunscreen, sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat when you're outside for more than a few minutes. Even if it's cloudy, UV rays can still harm your skin. Long sleeves and pants can also help shield your skin from sunburn and bug bites.
8. Know your limits. Don’t try to lift something heavy by yourself or climb a ladder if you're not steady on your feet. It’s okay to ask for help. If a job feels like too much, consider asking another family member to do it, hiring a professional or breaking it into smaller tasks.

Yardwork is something most homeowners need to do at some point or another. Although some tasks can and should be left to the pros, it can be a great way to stay active and enjoy some fresh air while keeping your home looking great. But it’s important to make sure you’re doing yardwork safely because there may be more potential dangers and chances for injury than you realize.

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^{Date Last Reviewed: April 18, 2025}

^{Editorial Review: Andrea Cohen, Editorial Director, Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Contact Editor}

^{Medical Review: Perry Pitkow, MD}