If you are reading this, it is quite likely that you are considering saving yourself some money on home maintenance by cleaning the gutter system of your home. While it is true that the actual process is relatively easy, it must be known that there are several health risks associated with completing this chore.

In fact, it is advised that you leave gutter cleaning to the professionals. Most assume that the top danger to this task is falling from the roof of the structure.

While this is possible, it is not the only danger that you face. In this brief guide, we will outline the top 3 health risks that relate to the cleaning of your home gutter system. 

1. Falling From a Ladder 

The first health risk that you face when cleaning out your gutter system is falling from the ladder. According to statistics, a total of 500,000 people experience a fall from a ladder each year.

A total of 90% of these falls occur at homes and at farms. Emergency rooms treat up to 164,000 injuries each year from these falls and at least 300 deaths occur annually.

Falling from a ladder could result in head injuries, injuries to the brain, the fractures of bones, and serious wounds.

In severe cases, it could result in death. Why take such a risk when there are professionals out there that specialize in the cleaning of these systems?

2. Bacterial Infections 

The next health risk that comes with cleaning out gutters is the possibility of coming into contact with types of bacteria that causes severe and potentially life-threatening infections.

The debris within the system is full of various types of bacteria that grows on or around animal feces, insects, rotting leaves, and standing water. Bacteria may enter the body through open wounds, scratches, the eyes, nose, and mouth.

Once inside of your body, the bacteria that makes its way in could lead to a wide array of health problems and even death.

One of the most serious bacteria that may be in your gutters is Clostridium tetani, which causes tetanus. Simply avoid cleaning out your gutters and leave this task to the professionals. 

3. Dizziness 

Many individuals – when at a higher elevation – may suffer from dizziness. In some instances, this may stem from anxiety or a fear of heights.

In other cases, it could be caused by lower levels of oxygen and/or underlying vertigo issues that make themselves known at higher elevations.

If you experience dizziness while cleaning out your gutters, you put yourself at risk for losing your balance and experiencing a potentially lethal fall. 

Contact Us 

The truth of the matter is, you should not waste your time cleaning gutters. It is a highly dangerous task. It is better to hire a professional, but you should not do that, either. So, you are probably wondering what you SHOULD do, right?

In short, you should have the Ultimate Gutter Guard system put on your home. Take down those old gutters and allow this new technology in. Not only is it safer and more effective than traditional gutters, they are virtually maintenance-free!

To learn more, contact us here at Southern Industries Home Improvements today by calling: (833) 240-4900.