'Have a hmmm' this summer

In New Zealand there are (on average) over 200 accidents every day in the garden.

person bending over with a spade in the garden holding his back

Tip 1: Loosen the soil before you dig - hard ground can be tough on your back.

Before you start digging, wet hard soil and loosen it with a garden fork. It can make the job easier and reduce strain on your back, shoulders and neck. 

 

Tip 2: Turn with your feet - avoid twisting when you dig and move soil

Lifting and twisting at the same time can increase your risk of a strain or sprain. When moving soil, turn your whole body by moving your feet and keeping your hips and shoulders aligned. 

 

Tip 3: Move the ladder, not your body - don't overreach when trimming or pruning.

If you can't comfortably reach what you're working on, climb down and reposition the ladder, so the job is right in front of you. Taking a few extra seconds can help prevent a serious fall. 

 

Tip 4: Stay grounded - use a pole saw instead of a ladder when you can

  Falls are one of the most common ways gardeners get injured - choosing a safer option before you start can help keep you out of harm’s way. 

 

There are over

200+
gardening injuries every day.

That is over

76,000
gardening injuries every year.

Have a hmmm. Then get into it

A gardening injury can put your summer plans on hold. Taking a moment to stop, think and make small changes can help you stay safe and keep doing the things that matter to you. 

Martin's story

The award-winning career of well-known foodie Martin Bosley was abruptly brought to a halt by serious injury in his garden.

Read Martin's story