National Deck Safety Month ― Date, History, and Details
National Deck Safety Month may be something you want to learn more about, and we want to help with that.
Let's dive deeper into learning more about the history of National Deck Safety Month and why people celebrate or observe it.
History of National Deck Safety Month and How to Celebrate/ Observe It
National Deck Safety Month is an annual event that takes place in May to raise awareness of deck safety and encourage people to take steps to prevent deck collapses and other accidents.
According to the National Institute of Standards and Technology, about 40 million U.S. homes have decks, and each year, there are an estimated 18,000 deck collapses and 5,000 injuries associated with them.
Most deck collapses occur when the structure is not maintained properly or when it is overloaded with people or furniture. Other common causes of deck accidents include poor design, inadequate footing, and rot or decay.
To help prevent deck accidents, the North American Decking and Railing Association (NADRA) created National Deck Safety Month to educate homeowners and others about the importance of deck safety and maintenance.
During National Deck Safety Month, NADRA offers tips for inspecting and maintaining decks, as well as for building new ones. Homeowners are encouraged to check their decks for loose boards, nails, and screws; to make sure the ledger is properly attached to the house; and to inspect the posts, beams, and joists for signs of rot or decay.
It is also important to regularly clean and seal decks to protect them from the elements. And, when adding furniture or other items to a deck, be sure to distribute the weight evenly to avoid putting too much strain on one area.
By taking these simple steps, homeowners can help prevent deck accidents and keep their families safe.