You have a lot of work on your plate when you’re moving to a new home. A lot can go wrong if you don’t pay attention to a few safety measures. The last thing anyone wants during a move is to be sidelined with an injury. That’s why we want to give you six safety tips that all movers should know.
Before we get started, remember that a professional mover is the safest (and quickest) way to get the job done. You can save your back a lot of agitation by letting a pro handle the heavy stuff. But if you’re intent on doing it by yourself, there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure you have the safest experience possible.
So, without further ado, here are six safety tips that all movers should know…
Dollies, Moving Straps and Furniture Glides Are Your Friends
You have several devices at your disposal when moving, and it’s best to take advantage of all of them. Dollies, moving straps and furniture glides make moving heavy, bulky items much easier. These devices are affordable and easy to use. It’s worth taking the time to make sure you’re using dollies and moving straps properly, so you can avoid having an item tip over and wreak havoc on you or the item itself.
Wrap Up Any Sharp Objects You’ll Be Moving
If you’re moving cutlery, knives or any other sharp objects, wrap them up tightly and securely. These items can cause harm to you, your help or other possessions you might be moving. You should also be mindful of sharp corners on things like tables, desks and other similar furniture. Include padding on everything that could poke or cut someone who is handling it.
Take Your Lifting Technique Seriously
When lifting a heavy object, always be mindful of proper lifting technique. Become familiar with your “power zone,” which is the area between your mid-thigh to mid-chest. Try to hold objects close to your body in this region. When lifting, remember that each object might require its own approach. In some cases, you should generate power from your legs, while other objects might warrant lifting from your back. Safely lifting objects also means never lifting anything that you suspect will be too heavy.
Keep Walkways Clear at All Times
Whenever you’re moving items, you want to be sure that you don’t trip, slip or fall. It might sound a little obvious, but you’d be surprised at how quickly walkways become cluttered when moving. Anytime you are about to move a particularly heavy object, make sure your path is cleared of any clutter. If you have someone helping you move that isn’t able to lift heavy items, put them in charge of keeping all your walkways clear.
Dress Appropriately
You definitely want to be comfortable when you’ll spending your entire day lifting heavy things. However, you should also be mindful of loose clothing that could get caught on sharp corners or trapped under your own feet. Dress comfortably but avoid wearing clothing that is too loose. You should also make sure to wear shoes or boots that will protect your feet if an item accidentally falls. Steel-toe boots are ideal, but a sturdy pair of sneakers will be appropriate for most situations.
Stay Well-Fed and Hydrated
Moving heavy items all day is tough work. The morning before relocating, eat a healthy meal to give you fuel throughout the day. Drink plenty of water before, during and after your move. If you have people helping you move, provide them food and water to make sure they are well-fed and hydrated.
OR – Forget All This and Call Fox Moving & Storage Chattanooga
Now that we’ve walked you through six safety tips that all movers should know, we’d also like to suggest that you consider how much easier your life would be if you call a professional mover to help you with the process. Our team makes sure to move all your belongings quickly and safely, so you can be free to focus on all the other aspects of your move.
Contact Fox Moving & Storage Chattanooga today to get a free quote on our services.