The summer season is a great time to get chores done around the house and many homeowners turn to the often neglected attic as part of their to-do list. This area of your home does present certain dangers, however, which is why attic safety is so important. Here are a few quick tips that you should follow:
Early Morning Hours Are Best
As the day goes on, the temperature rises and increases the dangers of working in the attic. To be safe, it's almost best to plan your work in the morning. This also goes for any maintenance being done by a qualified HVAC technician.
Stay Hydrated At All Times
No matter what time of day it is, your attic is going to get warm very quickly, especially if you're moving around a lot as you work. This is why it's a must for you to stay hydrated at all times. Avoid working in the attic without a bottle of water.
Only Step on Secure Joists and Rafters
Falls are common in attics, so make sure you limit yourself to stepping on secure joists and rafters. This is especially important if you step down on any insulation, as there may not be any kind of support underneath to keep you from falling.
Use a Personal Fall Arrest System
Whether you're accident prone or not, certain types of work in the attic necessitate the use of a Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS). This system consists of a body harness, anchor and tethering line to keep you safe in case you slip.
Don't Forget About Lighting
To get the most out of your work and stay safe while in the attic, you need to have ample lighting. If you attic is generally dark, take some portable lights up there with you.
If you'd like to learn more about attic safety or other home comfort, please don't hesitate to contact the friendly experts atValley Heating, Cooling, Electrical and Solar by visiting our website or calling (408) 868-5500. We've been serving the HVAC needs in the South Bay Peninsula and Silicon Valley since 1962.