Safe climbing requires ongoing vigilance. Here are five things to pay attention to before, during and after using a ladder.

There is a funny scene in the holiday classic Christmas Vacation where Clark Griswold, played by Chevy Chase, faces some dicey moments on a ladder while decorating the house. But don’t be a Griswold.

Ladders are such a commonplace item around the jobsite and in the home that we probably don't give their use much thought. Put it up, climb up, do your job, then climb down. However, improper use of ...