Ladders at Home

Every year, hundreds of thousands of people are treated in emergency rooms for ladder falls, many while cleaning gutters, trimming trees or hanging holiday lights. Older adults are especially likely to be seriously hurt.

• Homeowners
• DIY

Quick rules

• Use the right ladder: a step ladder for indoor work, an extension ladder tall enough to reach the roof edge plus 3 feet.
• Choose a ladder rated for your weight plus tools (Type I or IA for most adults).
• Set an extension ladder at a 4-to-1 angle on firm, level ground. See Extension Ladders.
• Use a ladder stabilizer (standoff) for gutters so the ladder doesn’t rest on them.
• Keep three points of contact and your belt buckle between the rails.
• Have someone hold the base and stay nearby.
• Move the ladder instead of reaching.

• Don’t stand on the top two steps of a step ladder or the top rungs of an extension ladder.
• Don’t use a ladder near power lines, especially an aluminum one.
• Don’t climb when it’s windy, wet, icy, or when you’re tired or taking medicine that causes dizziness.
• Don’t use chairs, buckets or boxes as ladders.

Getting on the roof

Roof falls are often fatal. If you must go up, use a roof anchor and harness (see Working on Roofs), stay off steep, wet or icy roofs, and consider hiring a pro. Many gutter and light jobs can be done from the ground with extension poles.

Last updated: October 1, 2026