4 Tips to Stay Safe and Avoid Injury During a Move
Moving can be physically demanding and, if not done carefully, can lead to injuries or accidents. From lifting heavy furniture to navigating cluttered spaces, safety should always be a priority.
Here are four essential tips to help you stay safe and avoid injuries during your move:
- Use Proper Lifting Techniques
Lifting heavy items improperly is one of the most common causes of moving-related injuries. Protect your back and muscles by using the correct form.
How to Lift Safely:
- Bend at your knees, not your waist, to pick up items.
- Keep your back straight and engage your core muscles.
- Hold items close to your body to maintain balance.
- Avoid twisting your torso while lifting or carrying objects; instead, turn your entire body.
Tip: Wear supportive footwear with non-slip soles to maintain stability while lifting and carrying items.
- Clear Pathways and Stay Organized
Cluttered or obstructed pathways can lead to trips, falls, and other accidents. Prepare your environment to ensure smooth and safe movement.
- Steps to Take:
- Clear hallways, staircases, and doorways of any obstacles before moving items.
- Keep children and pets in a secure area away from the moving process.
- Use proper lighting, especially in dim areas like basements or garages.
Tip: Label boxes clearly to know where they go and avoid carrying unnecessary weight up and down stairs.
- Use the Right Tools and Equipment
Having the right moving tools can make the process safer and more efficient.
Essential Tools:
- Dollies and Hand Trucks: Use these for heavy or bulky items to reduce strain on your back.
- Furniture Sliders: Place these under heavy furniture to move it easily without lifting.
- Lifting Straps: These can help distribute weight evenly and make carrying heavy items safer.
- Gloves: Protect your hands from cuts, splinters, or blisters.
- Ramps: Use portable ramps for loading items into moving trucks.
Tip: If you’re unsure how to use a tool, ask a professional or watch a tutorial to avoid misuse and potential injury.
- Know Your Limits and Ask for Help
Overexertion is a leading cause of moving injuries. Recognize your physical limits and enlist help when needed.
What to Do:
- Ask friends or family to assist with heavy lifting and tasks that require teamwork.
- Hire professional movers for large, complex moves, or when dealing with heavy items like pianos or appliances.
- Take breaks to avoid fatigue, which increases the risk of accidents. Stay hydrated and eat light snacks to maintain energy levels.
Tip: Divide the workload into manageable chunks to prevent overexertion or burnout.
Safety should be your top priority during a move. By using proper techniques, staying organized, utilizing the right tools, and knowing your limits, you can minimize the risk of injury and make the moving process smoother. A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring you stay healthy and injury-free as you transition to your new home.
How can storfindr help you get access to the right self-storage?
At storfindr Inc., we believe the everyday person should have access to the same level of convenience, quality and attention to detail as a large enterprise. It’s an experience that starts with finding the right size unit, and a convenient location.
To inquire about a partnership with your business and storfindr Inc., click here.
For more information or just to discuss your logistics needs, contact us at [email protected].
Need help with getting your large item from A -> B, we have you covered. Check out our parent company GoGedit for assistance.