Hazards of Gardening

Poison Cow Parsnip photo UW Extension

Poison Ivy photo UW Extension

We all love to be out in the garden. But there are some hazards in the garden that we should keep in mind while we work.

• Make sure you are up to date on your tetanus shot. Even when wearing gloves you can inadvertently cut or stab yourself when gardening, sometimes without being aware.
• Heat stroke and dehydration can sneak up on you especially when there is a nice breeze. It is easy to get dried out and not realize it. If you are feeling weak, dizzy, or feel a chill come over you, get into the house quickly. Drink water or other hydrating liquids, lay down with a cool compress on you head and belly to bring down your temp quickly. If you are feeling shaky, phone a friend or let someone know to check on you. One bout of heat stroke may leave you vulnerable to another so take it easy in the heat and sun.
• Bee and wasp stings can happen suddenly if you disturb a nest, especially when the weather is hot and dry leaving these lovely pollinators stressed and a bit testy. Allergies to stings can also come on suddenly so don't think that because you have never had a reaction you won't have one. Rapid swelling and hives will tell you to get some medical attention ASAP. Other symptoms can come on quickly so phone a friend, family member or 911 to let them know you need help.
• Watch out for poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac and other poisonous plants. Get to know what these plants look like. Wash immediately (up to 8 hours after exposure) with a grease cutting soap such as Dawn dish soap or Tecnu as the oil from these plants carries the urushiol allergen. Any tools or clothing that have come into contact with the oil can recontaminate you when touched later so be sure these are washed as well. You can tell the difference between a bug bite and poison ivy by the shape of the skin irritation. Poison ivy tends to leave a longish rash that corresponds to the the raking of the leaf across the skin. Once the rash appears, wash regularly. Control itching with anti-itch lotions or hold under the hot water tap for a minute to pull out the histamine (up to 4 hours of relief for bug bits as well). Scratching can spread the toxin and introduce bacteria. If the rash becomes infected, see a doctor.
• Pesticide and herbicide exposure is nothing to take lightly. Ingredients in these chemicals can be carcinogenic and can irritate the throat, nasal passages and lungs. They can also be absorbed through the skin. Always use eye protection, a mask and protective clothing when using chemicals. Launder clothing right away after use and separately from other clothing. Mix and apply chemicals as directed on the label, read all instructions, and be sure to apply when there is little or no breeze.
• Back injury from bending, stooping and carrying can leave you achy and sore. Utilize carts, wagons and mechanized aides where possible. Knee pads, ergonomic tools and a simple overturned bucket for sitting on will help immensely. Stretching exercised throughout the day can help muscles relax and reduce soreness. Anti-inflammatory pain relievers such as Tylenol or Advil taken at bedtime will help you wake up ready for another day in the garden.

Gardening is a labor of love even with the hazards!

Ground Nesting Yellow Jackets photo UW Extension

Helpful links:
Gardening around bees
www.networx.com/article/how-not-to-get-stung-by-bees
Safe Chemical Use
https://www.wikihow.com/Apply-Herbicides-Safely
Ergonomic gardening tools
http://www.wyomingextension.org/agpubs/pubs/B1238.pdf
Poisonous plants in Wisconsin
https://www.wiscontext.org/5-poisonous-plants-avoid-wisconsin
Washing Off Urushiol Allergen
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4oyoDRHpQK0

Article submitted by Pamela Davies MGV