- 1). Check the immediate area for any safety signs that indicate you are approaching a stairway or ladder. Some signs may even say "Avoid Falls, Use Handrails." Locate handrail and prepare to move up and down stairway or ladder by staying within arms-reach of handrail.
- 2). Plant feet squarely at the top or bottom of stairway or ladder. Reach out and grip handrail.
- 3). Hold onto handrail and move one foot up or down the stairway or ladder. Plant foot and move second foot up or down.
- 4). Make sure your feet are steady and move your hand up or down handrail. Repeat the steps.
- 5). Do not move up or down stairway unless your feet are steady and your hand is firmly on the rail. Using the handrail in this way will avoid most falls.